In social and biological contexts, the term "hierarchy" refers to which type of structure?

Introduction / Context:
This question is from general science and social science vocabulary. The term hierarchy is used in biology for social animals, in organizations for management levels, and in many other fields. Understanding the meaning of hierarchy helps in interpreting topics like food chains, social structure, and organizational charts.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question asks for the meaning of the term hierarchy. - The options describe different kinds of social or power structures. - The correct meaning should match common dictionary and textbook usage.

Concept / Approach:
A hierarchy is a system or organization in which people, groups, or elements are ranked one above another according to status or authority. Each level has a defined position relative to others. This can apply to pecking orders in animals, ranks in the military, or levels in a company.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Identify key ideas in the term hierarchy: ranking, levels, and order. 2. Option A describes equality and does not involve rank. 3. Option B refers to a power structure where each member knows his or her place, which matches ranking and order. 4. Option C speaks about species control, which is not the general meaning of the term. 5. Option D describes survival of the fittest, which relates to natural selection, not hierarchy. 6. Therefore, option B correctly defines hierarchy.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard dictionaries define hierarchy as a system where members are ranked according to relative status or authority. This is fully consistent with option B.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Equality based team: Describes a flat structure, not a hierarchical one. Control of lower species by higher species: Refers to interspecies relationships, not the general idea of hierarchical ranking. Weak must die so the strong can survive: Summarizes natural selection, not hierarchy.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes associate hierarchy only with exploitation or unfairness. While hierarchies can be misused, the term itself is neutral and simply describes an ordered ranking structure. Recognizing this helps in many exam questions that use hierarchy in different contexts.

Final Answer:
Hierarchy refers to a power structure in which each member knows his or her own place.