Evolution and Natural Selection

Flashcards covering key terms related to evolution, adaptation, and natural selection.

Theory of Evolution

An explanation gained through the scientific method, tested and confirmed.

Adaptation

Changes in a species that allow it to survive in its environment.

Natural Selection

The process where characteristics of a population change over generations as organisms with heritable traits survive and reproduce.

Mutation

A change in DNA that may lead to variation, not always resulting in an adaptation.

Selective Advantage

A genetic advantage that improves an organism's chance of survival in changing environments.

Microevolution

The change in allele frequency within a population over generations.

Biotic Factors

Living components that affect other organisms, such as predators and competition.

Abiotic Factors

Non-living environmental changes that can alter behavior in a population.

Homologous Structures

Similar structural elements and origins that may serve different functions, indicating common ancestry.

Adaptive Radiation

The diversification of a common ancestral species into different adapted species.

Allopatric Speciation

The formation of new species due to geographic isolation preventing gene flow.

Punctuated Equilibrium

Evolution characterized by long periods of stability interrupted by brief periods of rapid change.

Fitness

The contribution an individual makes to the next generation by producing offspring.

Artificial Selection

Selective pressure exerted by humans to improve or modify desirable traits in organisms.