If Darwin had been aware of genes and their typical mode of transmission to subsequent generations, with which statement would he most likely have been in agreement?
A) If natural selection can change gene frequency in a population over generations, given enough time and genetic diversity, then natural selection can cause sufficient genetic change to produce new species from old ones.
B) If an organism's somatic cell genes change during its lifetime, making it more fit, then it will be able to pass these genes on to its offspring.
C) If an organism acquires new genes by engulfing, or being infected by, another organism, then a new genetic species will result.
D) A single mutation in a single gene in a single gamete, if inherited by future generations, will produce a new species.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection is based on the idea that traits advantageous for survival and reproduction will become more frequent in a population over time. Genes are the units of inheritance that determine traits, and natural selection acts on the frequency of genes in a population. Therefore, Darwin would most likely agree with the statement that natural selection can change gene frequency over time and can produce new species from old ones.

If Darwin Had Been Aware of Genes and Their Typical