Evidence for Evolution & Historical Theories

Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

Charles Darwin, independently also developed by Alfred Russel Wallace.

What did Darwin propose?

Species evolve through natural selection acting on inherited variation.

Who was Alfred Russel Wallace?

A naturalist who independently developed the theory of natural selection.

How did Wallace contribute to evolutionary theory?

His work on species distribution and natural selection helped develop evolutionary explanations.

Why was Darwin's theory initially controversial?

It challenged established beliefs about the origin and permanence of species.

Why was Darwin's theory not immediately accepted by all scientists?

There was limited understanding of inheritance and incomplete evidence at the time.

What evidence supports evolution by natural selection?

Fossils, genetic similarities, observed evolution and anatomical evidence.

How does the fossil record support evolution?

It shows changes in organisms and the appearance and extinction of species over time.

How does DNA evidence support evolution?

Related organisms share similar genetic sequences, indicating common ancestry.

How does antibiotic resistance support evolution?

It demonstrates natural selection changing the frequency of inherited traits.

What is the difference between Darwin's theory and Lamarck's theory?

Darwin proposed selection of inherited variation, whereas Lamarck proposed inheritance of acquired characteristics.

Why is Lamarck's explanation generally rejected?

Changes acquired during an organism's lifetime are not usually inherited through DNA.

What was Jean-Baptiste Lamarck's main evolutionary idea?

Organisms could pass on characteristics acquired through use or disuse.

Why is natural selection a stronger explanation than inheritance of acquired characteristics?

It is supported by genetics, observed inheritance and experimental evidence.

What is a scientific theory?

A well-supported explanation based on evidence that can be tested and revised.

Why can scientific theories change?

New evidence and improved methods may refine existing explanations.

Why is evolution considered a scientific theory rather than a guess?

It is supported by extensive, independently collected evidence.