What is natural selection?

Natural selection is part of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.
It is when a species adapts to changes in the environment, allowing them to survive. If natural selection doesn't favour a species, it will become extinct as it cannot survive in the environment.
It is the idea of the 'survival of the fittest' - meaning species who have evolved more useful adaptations, like webbed feet or camouflaged skin, are more likely to survive, breed and pass on their adaptations to their offspring.Eventually this adaptation will become more common in the gene pool, allowing the species to adapt and survive.

AJ
Answered by Amy J. Biology tutor

3427 Views

See similar Biology KS3 tutors

Related Biology KS3 answers

All answers ▸

What are the components of the cells, and what do these components do?


What are the differences between animal and plant cells?


Describe the process of natural selection


How are flowering plants fertilised?


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