change in the heritable traits of a population from one generation to the next; change over time
evolution
The phenomenon described in the statement is known as “evolution”. Evolution refers to the process of change in the genetic characteristics of a population from one generation to the next. This occurs due to the processes of natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and migration. Natural selection is the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to their offspring. Genetic drift refers to random fluctuations in allele frequencies within a population, which can lead to changes in traits over time. Mutation is the process of changes in the DNA sequence, which can cause new traits to arise. Migration refers to the movement of individuals between populations, which can introduce new traits as well.
Over time, these natural processes can result in the emergence of entirely new species or the modification of existing species, as their traits change to adapt to their environments. The study of evolution has provided insights into the history of life on Earth and the diversity of living organisms that we see today. It has also played a significant role in the development of the life sciences, including genetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology.
More Answers:
Understanding Gene Flow and Its Impacts on Population GeneticsUnderstanding the Founder Effect: How Small Population Size Affects Genetic Variation and Evolution
Understanding Genetic Drift: How Chance Shapes Allele Frequencies in Populations