What is the theory of punctuated equilibrium? It describes the rate of geologic time. It explains why mass extinctions occur. It describes one way that new species arise.
Punctuated equilibrium is a theory in evolutionary biology that suggests that species tend to undergo long periods of stasis, with little to no evolutionary change, followed by short periods of rapid evolution or change. This theory explains why there are gaps in the fossil record and why some species appear to remain largely unchanged for millions of years before undergoing rapid diversification or extinction.
Punctuated equilibrium also helps to explain mass extinctions, as these events can provide the environmental upheaval necessary to drive rapid evolutionary change and the emergence of new species. Overall, the theory of punctuated equilibrium emphasizes the importance of sudden, drastic changes in the environment in driving evolutionary processes.