Why do we say that variations are useful for the survival of a species over time?

Question :Why do we say that variations are useful for the survival of a species over time?

The correct answer is -Variation refers to the differences that exist between individuals within a population. These variations can be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both.

Variations can be useful for the survival of a species over time because they provide the raw material for natural selection to act upon. In any population, there is always some degree of variation, and this variation can be beneficial, neutral, or detrimental to the survival of the individual.

Beneficial variations, such as those that improve an individual’s ability to find food, avoid predators, or reproduce, are more likely to be passed on to future generations through the process of natural selection. Over time, these beneficial variations can accumulate, leading to the development of new traits and even new species.

In contrast, individuals with detrimental variations are less likely to survive and reproduce, and their genes are less likely to be passed on to future generations. This process of natural selection helps to ensure that only the most fit individuals survive and reproduce, leading to a gradual improvement in the overall fitness of the population over time.

Therefore, variations are useful for the survival of a species over time because they provide the raw material for natural selection to act upon, leading to the development of new traits and the improvement of the overall fitness of the population.