Which of the following lists correctly represents the five main points of Darwin's theory of natural selection?

• A. Inheritance of acquired traits, Use and disuse, Catastrophism, Uniformitarianism, Spontaneous generation
• B. Stabilizing selection, Directional selection, Disruptive selection, Balancing selection, Sexual selection
• C. Mutation, Genetic drift, Migration, Non-random mating, Natural selection
• D. Variation, Overproduction, Competition, Adaptation, Differential survival and reproduction

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the context of Darwin's theory of natural selection. Darwin proposed that natural selection is the mechanism by which evolution occurs, emphasizing how traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population over time.
2. Step 2: Break down the five main points of Darwin's theory as listed in the correct answer: Variation, Overproduction, Competition, Adaptation, and Differential survival and reproduction. Each of these points plays a critical role in explaining how natural selection operates.
3. Step 3: Clarify each term: Variation refers to differences in traits among individuals in a population. Overproduction means organisms produce more offspring than can survive. Competition arises because resources are limited, leading to a struggle for survival. Adaptation involves traits that improve an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. Differential survival and reproduction indicate that individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits to the next generation.
4. Step 4: Compare the correct answer to the other options provided. The first option (Inheritance of acquired traits, Use and disuse, etc.) aligns with Lamarck's theory, not Darwin's. The second option (Stabilizing selection, etc.) refers to types of selection but does not summarize Darwin's theory. The third option (Mutation, Genetic drift, etc.) includes mechanisms of evolution but is broader than Darwin's specific theory.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is Variation, Overproduction, Competition, Adaptation, and Differential survival and reproduction, as these points accurately summarize Darwin's theory of natural selection.