Which rate of evolution BEST describes a fossil record that shows many different forms of the same organism over a long period of time? C 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 over time. This theory aligns with the description given in the problem, as it involves slow and steady changes in species over a long period of 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 changes rather than slow and steady changes.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />### **Convergent evolution**<br />This refers to the independent evolution of similar features in species of different lineages. This doesn't match the description given in the problem, as it involves the evolution of similar features in different species, not 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 changes rather than slow and steady changes.<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.