Darwin and Evolution

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to Darwin's theories and the evidence for evolution.

Natural Selection

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

Biogeography

The study of the geographical distribution of organisms, both living and extinct.

Microevolution

Small-scale evolutionary changes, typically seen within a single population.

Macroevolution

Large-scale evolutionary changes that occur at or above the level of species.

Homologous Structures

Structures that are similar in different species indicating a common ancestor.

Analogous Structures

Structures in different species that perform similar functions but do not share a common ancestor.

Vestigial Structures

Remnants of organs or structures that had a function in an early ancestor.

Biochemical Evidence

Evidence for evolution derived from studies of DNA, proteins, and other molecules common to all living things.

Embryology

The study of embryos and their development, providing clues for evolutionary relationships.

Species

A group of organisms that can reproduce and create viable offspring.

DNA Mutations

Changes in the genetic sequence that can be a source of variation within a population.

Fossil Record

Historical remnants of organisms preserved in rock layers, providing evidence for evolution.

Uniformitarianism

The theory that geological processes occurring today are similar to those that occurred in the past.