What is the definition of evolution in a biological context?

In a biological context, evolution refers specifically to the change in allele frequencies within a population over time. This occurs as a result of various mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow. These changes in allele frequencies can lead to the development of new traits within populations and, over extended periods, can result in the emergence of new species.

Understanding evolution in this way emphasizes the genetic aspect, highlighting that evolution is a process driven by changes in the genetic makeup of populations, rather than merely changes in phenotypes or behaviors alone. The focus on allele frequencies also aligns with the foundational principles of population genetics, providing a clear framework for studying how populations evolve over generations.

Other options may provide relevant concepts related to evolution but don’t capture its fundamental definition as precisely. For instance, environmental factors and adaptations are more about the mechanisms or outcomes of evolution rather than its core definition.