# Explain why variation within a species is beneficial to the survival of that species.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 18.1 Variation · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Variation allows natural selection to occur
2. Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on favourable alleles to offspring
3. Over many generations the frequency of advantageous traits increases in the population / population becomes better adapted
4. Variation reduces the risk of extinction from disease / a new disease or environmental change is less likely to kill all individuals

## Key terms

- [variation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/variation)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-variation-within-a-species-f91c70d8) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.