Question

which of these statements best sums up evolution?
○ rapid change in species’ habits and features
○ rapid development of vestigial structures in a species
○ change in a population through new species being made
○ change in a population through genetic variation over time

Explanation:

Evolution is the process of change in the heritable characteristics (genetic variation) of biological populations over successive generations (over time). The first option is incorrect as evolution is gradual, not rapid. The second is wrong because vestigial structures are remnants and not rapidly developed. The third is incorrect as evolution is about change in existing populations (and can lead to speciation but isn't defined by "new species being made" in that way). The fourth option matches the definition: change in a population through genetic variation over time.

Answer:

D. change in a population through genetic variation over time (assuming the last option is D; if options are labeled differently, adjust the identifier but the text is "change in a population through genetic variation over time")