What is the difference between natural selection and evolution?

Evolution is a gradual change in the inherited traits of a population over many generations. 

Natural selection is a mechanism where the members of a population best suited to their environment have the best chance of surviving to pass on their genes. The natural environment selects for these members over others in the population. 

Over many generations, because more of the best suited members have been reproducing, the population all now have the trait that makes them better suited for the environment. 

This population has now evolved to better suit its environment, through the process of natural selection.

DA
Answered by Dara A. Biology tutor

81974 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

It has been suggested that smoking, an epigenetic factor can lead to tumour growth and cancer. Use your knowledge of the epigenome and its structure to explain how this could occur. [5 marks]


Describe transcription:


Describe the process of DNA transcription:


Many enzymes present in cells require a catalyst to aid their actions. Describe the role of a catalyst.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning