Which statement best describes punctuated equilibrium?

Which statement best describes punctuated equilibrium?

• A. Steady pace
• B. Long periods of no change with rapid bursts of change
• C. No change ever
• D. Only in isolated populations

Answer: (B)

Punctuated equilibrium describes a pattern in evolution in which species show long periods of little or no morphological change, punctuated by relatively brief bursts of rapid evolution. This matches the idea of long periods of no change with rapid bursts of change. The fossil record often shows new species appearing suddenly with few intermediates, supporting these rapid shifts during speciation. This stands in contrast to steady, gradual change over time, and to the idea that there is no change at all. While rapid change is commonly associated with small, isolated populations during speciation, the key point is the alternating pace: long stasis followed by brief, swift transformation.

Punctuated equilibrium describes a pattern in evolution in which species show long periods of little or no morphological change, punctuated by relatively brief bursts of rapid evolution. This matches the idea of long periods of no change with rapid bursts of change. The fossil record often shows new species appearing suddenly with few intermediates, supporting these rapid shifts during speciation. This stands in contrast to steady, gradual change over time, and to the idea that there is no change at all. While rapid change is commonly associated with small, isolated populations during speciation, the key point is the alternating pace: long stasis followed by brief, swift transformation.