Examine Assertion (A) and Reason (R) and choose correct answer :
Assertion (A) : Species are static units in classification.
Reason (R) : Species do not change with time.

Question

Accepted Answer

Option 4 is the correct answer, which states that both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are false. Let's examine why this is the case:

1. **Assertion (A): Species are static units in classification.**
   - This assertion is false because species are not static units. In biological classification, species are dynamic and can change over time due to various evolutionary processes such as natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow. These processes can lead to the emergence of new species (speciation) or the extinction of existing ones. Therefore, species are not fixed or static but are constantly evolving.

2. **Reason (R): Species do not change with time.**
   - This reason is also false. As mentioned above, species do change over time due to evolutionary mechanisms. The fossil record, genetic studies, and observations of living organisms all provide evidence that species undergo changes. For example, the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a clear demonstration of how species can change over relatively short periods.

Now, let's explain why each of the other options is incorrect:

1. **Option 1: A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.**
   - This option is incorrect because both the assertion and the reason are false. Species are not static, and they do change over time, so neither statement is true.

2. **Option 2: A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.**
   - This option is incorrect because, as established, both the assertion and the reason are false. Therefore, it is not possible for both to be true, and the reason cannot explain the assertion.

3. **Option 3: A is true but R is false.**
   - This option is incorrect because the assertion itself is false. Species are not static units; they are subject to change over time due to evolutionary processes.

In conclusion, Option 4 is the correct answer because both the assertion and the reason are false. Species are dynamic and change over time, contrary to what is stated in both the assertion and the reason.