2. Which of these MOST likely determines if a mutation will become an adaptation in a species? genetic variation mitosis natural selection

## Step 1<br />The question is asking which of the given options most likely determines if a mutation will become an adaptation in a species. The options are genetic variation, mitosis, and natural selection.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Genetic variation refers to the differences in the genetic material of individuals within a species. Mitosis is a process of cell division that results in two daughter cells each having the same number and kind of chromosomes as the parent nucleus. Natural selection is the process by which species adapt to their environment.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />While genetic variation and mitosis are important for the process of evolution, it is natural selection that determines whether a mutation will become an adaptation. Natural selection is the process by which species adapt to their environment. It is the mechanism by which species evolve over time.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Natural selection works by favoring individuals who have traits that are advantageous in their environment. These advantageous traits are then passed on to the next generation. Over time, these traits become more common in the population, leading to the evolution of the species.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />In the case of a mutation, if it provides an advantage in the environment, it will be favored by natural selection. This means that the mutation will become more common in the population over time, leading to the adaptation of the species.