Science (086) — AI-generated practice question

The scenario reveals that variation is essential for the survival of a species, even if it may not benefit every individual.

In a stable environment, DNA copying ensures consistency of body design, keeping organisms suited to their niche. However, when the environment changes drastically (like rising pond temperature), most individuals — suited to the old conditions — die. Only those with favourable variations (e.g., tolerance to higher temperatures) survive, reproduce, and repopulate.

Thus, variation acts as a buffer against environmental changes, ensuring the long-term survival of the species even when most individuals perish.

Source: Chapter 7, Section 7.1.1 – The Importance of Variation

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• The examiner expects you to link the scenario to the textbook concept: variation → survival of species, not individual.
• Mention two key ideas: (1) DNA copying maintains consistency in a stable niche; (2) variation helps when the niche changes.
• Use the textbook's own logic — the frog example mirrors the bacteria/global warming example in Section 7.1.1.
• Avoid over-explaining; 3 marks = ~3 clear points or a tight short paragraph.