What is one primary difference between cultural evolution and biological evolution?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 3 Biology – Human Evolution Exam. Use quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations to ensure success. Master key concepts and get ready with confidence!

The primary difference highlighted in the correct choice is that cultural evolution occurs at a much faster pace compared to biological evolution. Cultural evolution refers to the transmission of ideas, behaviors, and customs through social learning, which can happen rapidly in response to environmental or social changes. For instance, new technologies or social norms can spread quickly among human populations.

In contrast, biological evolution involves genetic changes that typically occur over long time frames through processes such as natural selection, mutation, and genetic drift. These genetic adaptations can take generations to result in significant changes within a population because they rely on the reproductive success of individuals expressing advantageous traits over many generations.

This distinction illustrates that while both forms of evolution result in changes within populations, the mechanisms and timescales differ significantly, with cultural evolution being much more immediate and responsive to shifts in society or environment.

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