Macroevolution

Macroevolution

a form of evolution that results in large complex changes over very long periods of time and can result in new species being formed.

Petrification

organic material is converted into a fossil by the replacement of its original substances with minerals.

Radiometric dating

uses radioactive isotopes to measure how old something is.

Half-life

the time it takes for half of the radioactivity to decay away.

Descent with modification

existing plants and animals evolved by gradual changes in previously existing forms.

Transitional fossils

remnants of species that existed between an ancient species and a modern day species.

Pangaea

225 million years ago

Adaptive radiation

the evolutionary diversification of one species into many specialized forms to fit different environments.

Homologous structure

similar organs or body parts that are found in different animals in comparable locations but have different functions.

Vestigial structure

an anatomical structure that no longer has a function in its current form

Embryo

an early stage of development before an animal is born,