D 4.1.1

What is the definition of natural selection?

Natural selection is the non-random difference in survival and reproduction among individuals, where traits that aid survival and reproduction are passed on at higher rates, increasing in frequency over generations and changing the heritable characteristics of the population over time.

What are the three ecological observations made by Darwin and others?

• Populations have the potential to increase exponentially.

• Populations generally remain stable once they reach a certain size.

• Natural resources are limited.

What are the two heredity observations regarding populations?

• Individuals in a population vary in many characteristics.

• Many characteristics are heritable and passed on from parent to offspring.

What three main inferences follow from the ecological and heredity observations?

• Inference 1: Not all offspring produced will survive and reproduce due to a struggle for resources.

• Inference 2: Some individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce than others because of their heritable traits.

• Inference 3: Traits aiding survival and reproduction increase in proportion over generations, causing the heritable characteristics of the population to change (evolution).

How is the theory of evolution by natural selection an example of inductive reasoning?

It uses specific observations to recognize patterns and form a general conclusion (a theory) about how nature works.

How is natural selection explained through the Correspondence, Coherence, and Pragmatic theories of truth?

• Correspondence theory: It is true because it accurately describes the way the world is.

• Coherence theory: It is true because it coherently fits within a larger, consistent set of knowledge.

• Pragmatic theory: It is true because it has practical consequences that work and are useful in real-world scenarios.

What has been the long-term biological effect of natural selection since the formation of the first cells?

Natural selection has operated continuously since the formation of the first cells, resulting in the biodiversity of life on Earth.