What is the definition of natural selection?

The definition of natural selection revolves around the mechanism by which individuals with certain advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce compared to others in their population. This concept is foundational in evolutionary biology, as it explains how species adapt to their environments over time. The traits that enhance survival and reproductive success can be physical characteristics, behaviors, or physiological processes.

Natural selection doesn't operate randomly; rather, it is driven by environmental pressures that favor those individuals whose traits best suit them to thrive in their particular habitat. Over generations, these advantageous traits become more common within the population, leading to evolutionary changes.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of natural selection. For instance, suggesting that it favors the survival of weaker individuals contradicts the core principle that advantageous traits enhance survival. Describing it as a random event misconstrues the targeted nature of selection based on specific traits in context. Likewise, stating that all individuals have equal chances of survival ignores the critical role that varying traits play in the survival and reproductive success of individuals within a population.