Discuss how the concept of punctuated equilibrium is compatible with the fossil record. How

does this concept adapt Darwin’s original concepts of natural selection and evolution to agree
more closely with what we see in nature? What will be an ideal response?


The fossil record is incomplete with few gradual transitions from one species to another. Some
of this may be caused by the process of fossilization, which does not happen equally to all
creatures at all times. Some of it also may be due to the absence of rocks that cover all of
geologic time. However, some of the absence of intermediate forms is probably real and can be
explained by punctuated equilibrium.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

A. requires that industries report the amount of hazardous waste they produce. B. covers all kinds of hazardous waste. C. requires industries to clean up existing hazardous waste sites. D. All of these statements are correct. E. None of these statements is correct.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which of the following is not a periglacial landform?

A) Patterned ground B) Proglacial lakes C) Permafrost D) A kettle E) The Channeled Scablands of Washington State

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Topsoil plays an important role in the ecosystem service of ____.

A. biodiversity B. ecosystems C. natural resources D. win-win solutions E. nutrient cycling

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

In the Northern Hemisphere, the coldest time of the year occurs in December at the time of the winter solstice

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences