AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The genetic diversity of sexually produced offspring is thought to give species a better chance of surviving in an unpredictable or changing environment.

Detailed explanation-2: -According to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection, organisms that possess heritable traits that enable them to better adapt to their environment compared with other members of their species will be more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass more of their genes on to the next generation.

Detailed explanation-3: -Genetic variations that alter gene activity or protein function can introduce different traits in an organism. If a trait is advantageous and helps the individual survive and reproduce, the genetic variation is more likely to be passed to the next generation (a process known as natural selection).

Detailed explanation-4: -Today, scientists can compare their DNA. Similar DNA sequences are the strongest evidence for evolution from a common ancestor.

Detailed explanation-5: -The correct statement is e. Only populations evolve, individual organisms do not. This is the classic Darwin vs. Lamarck argument, where it is not known that evolution is the slow change of a population due to individual fitness levels, and individuals do not evolve over their lifespans.