How does natural selection affect allele frequencies in a population?

Natural selection is a key mechanism in the evolutionary process through which certain traits become more or less common in a population over generations. It operates by favoring individuals with advantageous traits that are better suited to their environment, which then have higher survival and reproductive rates. As a result, the alleles that contribute to these advantageous traits are more likely to be passed on to the next generation.

This process alters allele frequencies within the population, as the favored alleles become more prevalent while less advantageous alleles may diminish. Over time, this selective pressure shapes the genetic makeup of the population, resulting in evolutionary change. In contrast, random changes, equal elimination of alleles, and the creation of mutations do not accurately describe how natural selection specifically targets and influences allele frequencies. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the role of natural selection in promoting specific alleles that confer adaptive advantages over generations.