What does gradualism propose about the pace of evolutionary change?

What does gradualism propose about the pace of evolutionary change?

• A. Steady pace
• B. Irregular
• C. Only in small populations
• D. Rapid spurts

Answer: (A)

Gradualism is the idea that evolutionary change happens through small, cumulative variations that build up slowly over long periods. Because these changes accumulate steadily over time, the overall pace of evolution is a steady, gradual one rather than rapid bursts. It’s not about changing only in small populations or occurring in fits and starts. Over many generations, tiny tweaks in traits can add up to big differences, which is why a steady pace best fits what gradualism describes.

Gradualism is the idea that evolutionary change happens through small, cumulative variations that build up slowly over long periods. Because these changes accumulate steadily over time, the overall pace of evolution is a steady, gradual one rather than rapid bursts. It’s not about changing only in small populations or occurring in fits and starts. Over many generations, tiny tweaks in traits can add up to big differences, which is why a steady pace best fits what gradualism describes.