Question

a prey population consists of individuals with a variety of running speeds.
variation of running speeds
the adaptation that allows some of these animals to run fast would be an example of natural selection if it helps them -

• reproduce and increase the frequency of their genes in the population
• lower the mortality rates of the population
• produce offspring that run at average speeds
• survive and undergo mutations in their dna

Explanation:

To determine the correct option, we analyze the concept of natural selection. Natural selection occurs when a trait (like fast running speed) increases an organism's ability to survive and reproduce, thereby increasing the frequency of the genes associated with that trait in the population.

• Option 1: "reproduce and increase the frequency of their genes in the population" aligns with natural selection, as successful traits get passed on and become more common.
• Option 2: Lowering mortality rates alone isn't sufficient; reproduction and gene frequency increase are key.
• Option 3: Producing offspring with average speeds would not be a result of natural selection favoring fast speed.
• Option 4: Natural selection acts on existing traits, and mutations are random, not a direct result of natural selection helping survival.

Answer:

A. reproduce and increase the frequency of their genes in the population