Question

How does reproduction help in providing stability to populations of species?
A. Variation
B. Selective adaptation
C. Both A and B
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: New offsprings are produced by the process of reproduction. As the gametes form by meiotic cell division, crossing over occurs which leads to variation in a population. Moreover, different sets of genes help organisms adapt better.

Complete answer: Reproduction is the biological process of producing new individuals or offspring of the same species. Hence, it ensures the continuity of the species. For this process, male and female individuals produce gametes by meiotic divisions. This brings variation in the population of the corresponding species. The variation may occur due to environmental changes or just spontaneously.
Due to different environmental changes, organisms learn to adapt accordingly. Some adapt well, some not.
Adaptation helps adjust the organism in a different environment. We know natural selection operates and it selects only the suitable genes to sustain.
Some members are selected which are better adapted to the existing environment. This is how the vanishing of the entire species is prevented.

So, the correct option is C. Both A and B

Note: Gamete production occurs by a type of cell division called meiosis. In meiosis, crossing-over occurs and the exchange of genes takes place between non-sister chromatids of the homologous chromosomes. Hence, new combinations of genes appear ultimately bringing variation in the population.