According to Darwin , a new species arises due to which of the following two factors ?

Options

A. Natural selection and branching descent
B. Branching descent and Mutation
C. Mutation and natural selection
D. Variation and mutation

Answer

To answer the question regarding the two factors according to Darwin that lead to the emergence of a new species, we can break down the solution into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Darwin's Theory of Evolution**:
- Charles Darwin proposed a theory of evolution that includes key concepts such as natural selection and branching descent.

2. **Natural Selection**:
- This is the process where organisms that are better adapted to their environment tend to survive and reproduce more than those that are less adapted. This leads to the gradual evolution of species over time.
- Key Point: Natural selection focuses on reproductive fitness, meaning that those individuals who can reproduce successfully pass on their traits to the next generation.

3. **Branching Descent**:
- This concept refers to the idea that new species arise from a common ancestor through a process of divergence. Over time, as populations adapt to different environments, they evolve into distinct species.
- Key Point: Branching descent emphasizes that all species share a common lineage and evolve from that lineage.

4. **Eliminating Other Options**:
- The other options mentioned in the question include mutation and variation. While these are important in the context of evolution, they are not the two primary factors highlighted by Darwin. Mutation refers to changes in genetic material, and variation refers to differences within a species, but they do not encompass the core of Darwin's theory.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, according to Darwin, the two factors that lead to the emergence of a new species are **Natural Selection** and **Branching Descent**.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is: **Natural Selection and Branching Descent**.

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