A major change in evolutionary patterns over long periods of time is best described as ____.
A) macroevolution
B) microevolution
C) allopatric speciation
D) directional selection
E) sympatric speciation

Question

​A major change in evolutionary patterns over long periods of time is best described as ____.
A) ​macroevolution
B) ​microevolution
C) ​allopatric speciation
D) ​directional selection
E) ​sympatric speciation

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Macroevolution refers to major evolutionary changes over long periods, such as the formation of new species or groups, large-scale changes in biodiversity, and significant evolutionary developments. It encompasses the broader patterns of evolutionary change observed over geological time scales, beyond the scope of microevolution, which deals with smaller evolutionary changes within a species or population over a shorter period.

​A Major Change in Evolutionary Patterns Over Long Periods of Time

A Major Change in Evolutionary Patterns Over Long Periods of Time