Which statement best describes ethnicity?

Ethnicity is dynamically constructed through cultural practices, which emphasizes the ongoing process of identity formation that is influenced by social, historical, and cultural contexts. It involves shared cultural traits such as language, religion, customs, and values among a group of people. Ethnic identity can change over time and may adapt in response to different social environments or interactions, highlighting its fluid nature rather than a fixed characteristic.

The other options do not accurately encompass the complexity of ethnicity. For instance, defining ethnicity solely by physical appearance would ignore the essential cultural components that contribute to a person's ethnic identity. Describing it as a fixed and unchanging identity overlooks how individuals and groups can evolve in their ethnic affiliations and expressions. Finally, asserting that ethnicity is irrelevant to social identity undermines the significant role that ethnic groups play in individuals’ sense of belonging and community, as well as how society perceives and interacts with them. Understanding ethnicity as dynamic allows for a richer comprehension of social identity and the diverse experiences that accompany it.