Heritable variation is required for which of the following processes?

• A. Cellular respiration
• B. Photosynthesis
• C. Natural selection
• D. Mitosis

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of heritable variation: Heritable variation refers to the genetic differences that are passed from parents to offspring. These variations are crucial for the process of evolution.
2. Identify the process that relies on genetic differences: Among the options provided, natural selection is the process that requires heritable variation. It is a mechanism of evolution where individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
3. Differentiate between the processes: Cellular respiration and photosynthesis are metabolic processes that do not rely on genetic variation. Mitosis is a form of cell division that results in genetically identical cells, so it does not involve heritable variation.
4. Connect heritable variation to natural selection: Natural selection acts on the heritable traits within a population, leading to changes in allele frequencies over generations. This process requires genetic diversity to allow for adaptation to changing environments.
5. Conclude why natural selection is the correct answer: Since natural selection depends on the presence of heritable variation to drive evolutionary change, it is the only process among the options that requires genetic differences.