What is natural selection?

Natural selection is a fundamental mechanism of evolution, describing how certain traits become more common in a population over generations. The essence of natural selection lies in the differential survival and reproduction of individuals due to variations in their traits.

Organisms that possess favorable traits—those that enhance their chances of survival and reproduction in a specific environment—are more likely to pass these traits on to the next generation. This process leads to the gradual adaptation of populations to their specific habitats over time. For example, in a particular habitat, animals that can camouflage themselves may avoid predators more effectively and reproduce more successfully, thereby increasing the frequency of that camouflage trait in subsequent generations.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of natural selection. While all organisms do adapt, they do not do so equally; adaptation varies based on the specific traits beneficial for the environment. Genetic engineering refers to human-directed manipulation of an organism's genes, which is distinct from the natural process of selection. Lastly, natural selection is not limited to humans; it applies to all living organisms, encompassing a broad spectrum of species across various environments.