Question

The concept of uniformitarianism, articulated by James Hutton in the late 1700s, states that ________.

1) the genetic code is similar among all living and extinct species

2) mutations accumulate at a constant rate in most organisms

3) current geological processes on Earth operate in the same manner as those that operated in the past

4) the rate of extinction has been constant throughout the time life has existed on Earth

Answer 1

Uniformitarianism states that current geological processes on Earth operate in the same manner as those that operated in the past. This concept connects to Darwin's hypothesis of natural selection and helps us understand the history of our planet and the evolution of life.

Step-by-step explanation:

The concept of uniformitarianism, articulated by James Hutton in the late 1700s, states that current geological processes on Earth operate in the same manner as those that operated in the past. This means that the geological changes we observe today, such as weathering, erosion, and deposition, have been happening for millions of years. This concept was popularized by geologist Charles Lyell and is closely connected to Darwin's hypothesis of natural selection, which states that slow and subtle processes can lead to substantial biological change given enough time.

For example, the formation of valleys by rivers wearing through rock is a process that occurs over a long period of time. According to uniformitarianism, this same process has been happening since the formation of the Earth. By studying these gradual changes, scientists can gain insights into the history of our planet and the evolution of life.