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QuizMultiple Choice

Topic Test

Question 1 • 5120VA Environmental Science Sem A

Which of the following is the best explanation for why finches on one of the islands in the Galapagos have large beaks while finches on another island have small beaks?

Answer
A
Over time, the finches on the island adapted as a result of competition for resources.
B
Finches migrated until they found finches with similar beak sizes.
C
Finches spontaneously changed their beak size in order to better access food supplies.
D
Finches with large beaks are always better adapted to their environment. Finches with small beaks only survive on islands where there were never finches with larger beaks.

Explanation

Finch populations can develop different beak sizes over generations through natural selection. When food sources differ and finches compete for resources, individuals whose beaks are better suited to the available food are more likely to survive and reproduce. This makes choice A, adaptation as a result of competition for resources, the best explanation. Finches do not change their beaks on purpose, and large beaks are not always better in every environment.

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