Darwin's theory of natural selection posits which of the following?

• A. Random mutation produces individuals better suited to the environment, leading to survival and reproduction
• B. Traits are inherited only through life experiences
• C. Culture is the only driver of evolution
• D. Natural selection acts only on physical traits

Answer: (A)

Natural selection hinges on variation that is heritable and on differential survival and reproduction. Random mutations generate variation among individuals, and those with traits that give them a better chance to survive and reproduce are more likely to pass on their genes. Over generations, this leads to an increase in the frequency of advantageous traits in the population, shaping how species adapt to their environments.

The other ideas miss or misstate the process. Inheritance is genetic, not learned from life experiences; culture isn’t the sole driver of evolution; and natural selection acts on any heritable trait, not only physical ones.