Darwin’s idea that evolution occurs by the gradual accumulation of small changes can be summarized as:

Darwin’s idea that evolution occurs by the gradual accumulation of small changes can be summarized as:
A . Convergent evolution
B . Adaptive radiation
C . Punctuated equilibrium
D . Phyletic gradualism
E . Sympatric speciation

View Answer

Answer: D

Explanation:

Phyletic gradualism is the view that evolution occurs at a more or less constant rate. Contrary to this view, punctuated equilibrium holds that evolutionary history consists of long periods of stasis punctuated by geologically short periods of evolution. This theory predicts that there will be few fossils revealing intermediate stages of evolution, whereas phyletic gradualism views the lack of intermediate-stage fossils as a deficit in the fossil record that will resolve when enough specimens are collected.