What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?
A) Microevolution refers to change within species; macroevolution refers to the production of new species.
B) Microevolution refers to small changes within a species; macroevolution refers to major changes within a species.
C) Microevolution refers to changes in microorganisms; macroevolution refers to changes in bigger species.
D) Microevolution is accepted by evolutionary scholars; macroevolution is accepted by creationists.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Microevolution refers to changes within a species, such as changes in allele frequencies or the emergence of new traits, while macroevolution refers to larger-scale evolutionary changes, such as the formation of new species, genera, or higher taxonomic categories. Thus, A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the difference between these two concepts.

B is incorrect because it implies that macroevolution involves major changes within a species, which is not the case.

C is incorrect because both microevolution and macroevolution can occur in species of different sizes, not just microorganisms vs. larger organisms.

D is incorrect as it misrepresents the scientific consensus among evolutionary scholars, who accept both microevolution and macroevolution as key mechanisms of biological change over time.

What Is the Difference Between Microevolution and Macroevolution