LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Punctuated equilibrium is a theory that states that evolution occurs primarily through short bursts of intense speciation, followed by lengthy periods of stasis or equilibrium. The model postulates that nearly 99% of a species’ time on earth is spent in stasis, and change happens very quickly.

Detailed explanation-2: -In evolutionary biology, punctuated equilibrium (also called punctuated equilibria) is a theory that proposes that once a species appears in the fossil record, the population will become stable, showing little evolutionary change for most of its geological history.

Detailed explanation-3: -What is meant by a punctuated pattern? The term refers to the periods of apparent stasis punctuated by sudden change.

Detailed explanation-4: -The correct answer: The term that describes evolution as slowly occurring changes is b. Gradualism. Gradualism is the process of gradual change that occurs over the course of evolution. This causes changes in the characteristics of the organisms which undergo evolution.