Question

quiz instructions
please select the best response from those given.
question 4
natural selection acts on
○ mutations.
○ the needs of a species.
○ randomly produced variation.
○ the sex cells.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Mutations are a source of variation but natural selection acts on phenotypes (variation), not directly on mutations.
• Species don't have "needs" that guide natural selection; it's about differential survival/reproduction of individuals with traits.
• Natural selection acts on the randomly produced variation (from sources like mutation, genetic drift, etc.) in a population, favoring traits that increase fitness in a given environment.
• Natural selection acts on individuals (their phenotypes), not specifically on sex cells.

Answer:

C. randomly produced variation. (Note: Assuming the options are labeled A - D with A: mutations, B: the needs of a species, C: randomly produced variation, D: the sex cells)