Darwin and Wallace's theory of evolution by natural selection was revolutionary because it _____.

• A. claimed that acquired characteristics could be inherited by offspring
• B. suggested that all species were created independently and remain unchanged
• C. argued that evolution occurs only through sudden, catastrophic events
• D. proposed a natural mechanism for how species change over time without invoking supernatural explanations

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of the problem: The question is asking about the revolutionary aspect of Darwin and Wallace's theory of evolution by natural selection. This requires knowledge of the historical and scientific significance of their work.
2. Clarify the incorrect options: Review why the other options are not correct. For example, acquired characteristics being inherited was a concept proposed by Lamarck, not Darwin and Wallace. Similarly, the idea that species were created independently and remain unchanged contradicts the concept of evolution. Lastly, evolution through sudden catastrophic events aligns more with punctuated equilibrium, not natural selection.
3. Focus on the correct answer: Darwin and Wallace's theory was revolutionary because it provided a natural mechanism—natural selection—for explaining how species change over time. This mechanism does not rely on supernatural explanations, making it a scientific approach.
4. Explain natural selection: Natural selection is the process where individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. Over generations, these advantageous traits become more common in the population.
5. Summarize the significance: The theory of evolution by natural selection shifted the understanding of biology by explaining species change as a gradual, natural process driven by environmental pressures and genetic variation, rather than divine intervention or static creation.