Lecture on Charles Darwin and the Theory of Evolution

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary related to the development of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

Natural Selection

The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Galapagos Islands

A group of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean, famous for their diverse wildlife and for being studied by Charles Darwin.

Adaptive Radiation

The process in which organisms diversify rapidly into a wide variety of forms to adapt to different environments.

HMS Beagle

The ship on which Charles Darwin served as a naturalist during its voyage around the world from 1831 to 1836.

Erasmus Darwin

Charles Darwin's grandfather, a physician who suggested that species evolve from a common ancestor.

Malthusian Dilemma

The theory proposed by Thomas Malthus that population growth will outpace resources, leading to a struggle for existence.

Inheritance of Acquired Characteristics

A discredited biological hypothesis that an organism can pass on characteristics acquired during its lifetime to its offspring.

Cuvier

A scientist recognized for his work in paleontology and his theories regarding extinction.

Alfred Russel Wallace

A naturalist who independently developed a theory of natural selection and corresponded with Darwin.

Publication Date of "On the Origin of Species"

November 1859, when Darwin's seminal work on natural selection became publicly available.