How do genetic variation and natural selection drive evolution?

Genetic variation and natural selection are two of the key driving forces of evolution. Genetic variation refers to the differences that exist between individuals of a species due to differences in their genes or DNA. This variation arises due to mutations, recombination, and other genetic processes that can result in differences in physical traits, behavior, and other characteristics.

Natural selection, on the other hand, is the process by which certain traits become more or less common in a population based on their effects on survival and reproduction. In other words, individuals with certain traits that give them an advantage in their environment are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to their offspring, while those without these traits are less likely to do so.

Over time, this process can result in significant changes in the genetic makeup of a population, leading to the evolution of new species or the adaptation of existing ones to their environment. For example, the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a result of natural selection, as those bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics are more likely to survive and reproduce in environments where antibiotics are present.

In conclusion, genetic variation and natural selection are the two key factors that drive evolution, resulting in the diversity of life that we see around us today.