Question

all of these are examples of random evolutionary processes except
a.
an earthquake divides a single elk species into two populations, forcing
them to no longer interbreed.

b.
a mutation in a flower plant results in a new variety.

c.
an especially long winter causes a group of migrating birds to shift their
home range.

d.
a mutation results in a population of trees that spread their seeds more
widely than their peers, causing their population to grow.

Explanation:

Random evolutionary processes (like genetic drift, founder effect, mutation) are random. Option D describes natural selection (a non - random process) as the mutation - caused trait (wider seed spread) gives a reproductive advantage, leading to population growth. Options A (geographic isolation, random event), B (mutation, random), and C (environmental change, random) are random evolutionary processes.

Answer:

D. a mutation results in a population of trees that spread their seeds more widely than their peers, causing their population to grow.