What does Darwin’s theory primarily explain?

Darwin’s theory primarily explains the concept of variation and adaptation through natural processes, emphasizing how species evolve over time in response to their environments. This theory, known as natural selection, posits that individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. As a result, these advantageous traits are passed on to future generations, leading to gradual changes in the species.

Darwin's ideas underscore the importance of variation within populations. This variation is critical for evolution, as it provides the raw material for natural selection to act upon. Organisms in any given environment experience different survival and reproduction rates depending on their specific traits, which can lead to adaptation over generations.

By focusing on how species adapt to their surroundings and the processes that drive these changes, Darwin's theory laid the foundation for modern evolutionary biology. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the dynamic and ever-changing nature of life on Earth.