Which of the following best describes macroevolution?

Macroevolution refers to large-scale evolutionary changes that occur over extended periods of time, typically resulting in the formation of new species or significant changes in larger groups of organisms. This concept encompasses the grand patterns of evolution observed in the fossil record, including speciation events, and it contrasts with microevolution, which involves smaller evolutionary changes within a single species or population.

In this context, the option that describes long-term evolutionary changes leading to new species accurately captures the essence of macroevolution. It highlights not just the gradual modifications within organisms but also the broader impact of these changes on biodiversity and species formation over geological timescales.

Understanding macroevolution is crucial in studying how life on Earth has diversified and adapted through various processes, underlining its importance in the field of evolutionary biology.