Question

which statement would least likely be used to describe variation?
variations are inherited differences between individuals of the same species.
variations that decrease reproductive success are more likely to be passed on.
variations may result in changes to an entire population after many generations.
variations provide some individuals with an advantage.

Explanation:

To determine the least likely statement about variation, we analyze each option:

• The first option correctly defines variations as inherited differences in the same species.
• The second option is incorrect. In natural selection, variations that increase reproductive success (not decrease) are more likely to be passed on. Variations reducing reproductive success are less likely to be inherited as individuals with such variations may reproduce less.
• The third option is correct as variations can drive evolutionary changes in a population over generations.
• The fourth option is correct as some variations give individuals a survival or reproductive advantage.

Answer:

B. Variations that decrease reproductive success are more likely to be passed on.