CAPE Biology Unit 1 · 2007 · Paper 1 · Question Q38

Three of the hypotheses in the theory of natural selection are: I. Individuals may differ from one another as a result of chance variation. II. More offspring are born than can survive and reproduce. III. There is a struggle for existence between the individuals and their environment. From these statements, which of the following is the MOST likely deduction?

1. (A)The number of individuals in the environment increases with each generation.
2. (B)The individuals best suited to the environment are those with the least variation.
3. (C)The individuals with variation are hybrids, sterile and are unsuccessful in the struggle.
4. (D)The individuals which cope with the struggle have variations suited to the environment.