Which term best describes the process by which evolution occurs through differential survival and reproduction of individuals with heritable traits?

• A. Gene flow
• B. Genetic drift
• C. Natural selection
• D. Mutation

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is asking for the term that describes evolution driven by differences in survival and reproduction based on heritable traits.
2. Recall the definitions of the given terms: Gene flow is the transfer of alleles between populations; Genetic drift is random changes in allele frequencies; Mutation is a change in DNA sequence.
3. Recognize that the process involving differential survival and reproduction of individuals with advantageous heritable traits is called Natural selection.
4. Natural selection leads to certain traits becoming more common in a population over generations because those traits increase an individual's chances of survival and reproduction.
5. Therefore, the term that best fits the description is Natural selection.