Which choice correctly identifies a positive correlation regarding the increase in black peppered moth populations in England during the late 1800s?(1 point)
Responses
the correlation between air pollution and white moth populations
the correlation between air pollution and white moth populations
the correlation between black moth populations and predation of black moths
the correlation between black moth populations and predation of black moths,
the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation
the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation
the correlation between air pollution and white moth predation
the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation
The correct choice is:
the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation
The correct choice that identifies a positive correlation regarding the increase in black peppered moth populations in England during the late 1800s is:
- the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation
To arrive at this answer, we need to understand what a positive correlation means. A positive correlation exists when two variables increase or decrease together. In the case of the black peppered moth populations, we are looking for a factor that increased along with the moth populations.
During the late 1800s, industrialization caused an increase in air pollution in England. This increase in air pollution resulted in tree trunks becoming blackened and covered in soot. As a result, the light-colored peppered moths, which were more easily spotted by predators on these darkened tree trunks, faced a higher risk of predation.
However, some black peppered moths had a genetic variation that made them darker in color, providing them with better camouflage on the soot-covered tree trunks. As a result, these darker moths had a survival advantage, leading to an increase in their population.
Therefore, the correct choice that identifies a positive correlation is "the correlation between air pollution and black moth predation."