Question

question 16 of 25
when will natural selection occur?
a. when there are plenty of resources
b. when there is no competition
c. when there is no variation in a species
d. when a population reaches carrying capacity

Explanation:

Natural selection occurs when resources are limited. When a population reaches its carrying capacity (the maximum number of individuals an environment can support), competition for resources (like food, space) intensifies. Variations within the population then become significant as some individuals are better adapted (due to genetic variations) to survive and reproduce in this competitive, resource - limited situation.

• Option A: If there are plenty of resources, there is less competition, and the driving force for natural selection (differential survival and reproduction based on resource access) is weak.
• Option B: No competition means no pressure to select for certain traits over others.
• Option C: No variation in a species means there are no different traits for natural selection to act upon.

Answer:

D. When a population reaches carrying capacity