Which rate of evolution BEST describes a fossil record that shows many different forms of the same organism over a long period of time? A. Gradualism B. Adaptive radiation C. Convergent evolution D. Punctuated equilibrium

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to identify the rate of evolution that best describes a fossil record showing many different forms of the same organism over a long period of time. Let's analyze each option:<br /><br />## Step 2<br />### **Gradualism**<br />This theory suggests that species slowly change through a series of intermediate stages. This theory aligns with the description given in the problem, as it involves the slow and steady transformation of species over time.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />### **Adaptive radiation**<br />This refers to the rapid evolution of many diverse species from a single ancestral species. This doesn't match the description given in the problem, as it involves rapid diversification rather than slow change.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />### **Convergent evolution**<br />This is when different species independently evolve similar traits as they adapt to similar environments. This doesn't match the description given in the problem, as it involves the development of similar traits in different species, not the evolution of many forms of the same organism.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />### **Punctuated equilibrium**<br />This theory suggests that species will exhibit little net evolutionary change for most of their geological history, but when they do change, it is relatively rapid. This doesn't match the description given in the problem, as it involves rapid change rather than slow change.<br /><br />## Step 6<br />Based on the above analysis, the rate of evolution that best describes a fossil record showing many different forms of the same organism over a long period of time is gradualism.