Which of the following is responsible for evolution accoridng to Neo-Drawinism:

Options

A. Mutation
B. Natural selection
C. Adaptive radiation
D. Either (1) or (2)

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Neo-Darwinism**: Neo-Darwinism combines Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection with Gregor Mendel's principles of genetics. It emphasizes the role of genetic variation in the process of evolution.

2. **Identifying Key Concepts**: The two main concepts in Neo-Darwinism are:
- **Natural Selection**: This is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. It is considered the primary mechanism of evolution.
- **Mutation**: This refers to sudden changes in the genetic material of an organism. Mutations can lead to new traits that may be beneficial, neutral, or harmful.

3. **Role of Natural Selection**: Natural selection acts on the variations within a population. Those individuals with traits that give them an advantage in their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those advantageous traits to the next generation.

4. **Role of Mutation**: Mutations introduce new genetic variations into a population. Beneficial mutations can enhance an organism's fitness, making it more likely to survive and reproduce.

5. **Conclusion**: According to Neo-Darwinism, both natural selection and mutation are responsible for evolution. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that both processes (natural selection and mutation) are key factors in the evolution of species.

6. **Final Answer**: The option that states either 1 (Natural Selection) or 2 (Mutation) is correct, indicating that both are responsible for evolution according to Neo-Darwinism.

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