Can sunlight change the distribution of traits in a population? (1 No, because the environment can only change behaviors. No, because the environment can only change traits in individual organisms. Yes, because the environment can factor into the distribution of traits. Yes, because the environment is the only factor that can change traits.

Yes, sunlight can change the distribution of traits in a population. The most accurate statement among the options provided is: **Yes, because the environment can factor into the distribution of traits.** **Explanation:** Sunlight, as an environmental factor, can influence which traits are advantageous in a particular setting. For example: - **Natural Selection:** In areas with high sunlight exposure, traits that protect against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as darker pigmentation in skin or plants, may be favored. Individuals with these traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to an increase in the frequency of these traits in the population over time. - **Adaptation:** Plants might develop traits like thicker leaves or reflective surfaces to manage excessive sunlight, enhancing their survival and reproduction rates. - **Behavioral Changes:** While not directly altering genetic traits, behaviors influenced by sunlight (like seeking shade or being active during certain times of the day) can also affect survival and reproduction, indirectly influencing trait distribution. **Why the Other Options Are Less Accurate:** 1. **No, because the environment can only change behaviors.** - *Incorrect.* Environmental factors like sunlight can directly influence physical and genetic traits, not just behaviors. 2. **No, because the environment can only change traits in individual organisms.** - *Incorrect.* While the environment affects individual organisms, these changes can lead to shifts in the overall distribution of traits within the population through mechanisms like natural selection. 4. **Yes, because the environment is the only factor that can change traits.** - *Incorrect.* The environment is a crucial factor, but other factors like genetic mutations, genetic drift, and gene flow also play significant roles in changing trait distributions within populations. **Conclusion:** Environmental factors, including sunlight, play a vital role in shaping the distribution of traits within populations by influencing which traits are advantageous and therefore more likely to be passed on to future generations.