Understanding Evolution and Natural Selection

What is natural selection?

The mechanism by which species change over time, favoring individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproductive success.

What does 'survival of the fittest' refer to in natural selection?

It refers to the higher reproductive rates of individuals with beneficial traits that enhance their chances of survival.

Who was Charles Darwin?

A mid-19th century naturalist known for his contributions to the theory of evolution and for writing 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859.

What significant journey did Charles Darwin undertake?

He was appointed as a naturalist for the navy expedition on HMS Beagle, traveling around the world for five years.

What observations did Darwin make in the Galapagos Islands?

He noted significant variety in species from island to island, particularly among finches, leading to theories on adaptation.

What is evolution?

The process by which species change over time, characterized by variation among individuals in a population.

What is genetic diversity?

The variety of genetic traits within a population, which can arise from mutations and sexual reproduction.

What are the potential effects of mutations on fitness?

Mutations can reduce fitness, have a neutral effect, or provide a beneficial effect that increases survival and offspring.

What is adaptation in the context of evolution?

A heritable trait that helps organisms survive and reproduce in their current environment.

What is divergent evolution?

The process where species evolve in diverse directions from a common ancestor, adapting to different environments.

What is convergent evolution?

The evolution of similar traits independently in different species, such as crabs and flight adaptations.

What is population genetics?

The study of genetic variation within populations and how it changes over time.

What does polymorphic mean in population genetics?

It refers to populations that have two or more variants of particular characteristics.

What is genetic variability?

The diversity of alleles and genotypes within a population, which can be affected by interbreeding.

What is selection pressure?

A driving selective force that may lead to evolutionary change in a population.

What is genetic drift?

The effect of chance on population genetics, where some individuals may have more offspring due to random factors.

What evidence supports the theory of evolution?

Fossils, anatomy and embryology, biogeography, and molecular biology provide evidence of evolutionary change.

What are homologous structures?

Similar structures in different species that result from a common ancestor.

What are vestigial structures?

Unused structures in organisms that have no current function, often considered evolutionary leftovers.

How does embryology provide evidence for evolution?

Many developmental features in vertebrate embryos show similarities that reflect evolutionary history.

What role does biogeography play in evolution?

It examines the geographic distribution of organisms, which follows patterns best explained by evolutionary processes.

How does molecular biology relate to evolution?

DNA reflects 'descent with modification' and shows genetic similarities that indicate relatedness among organisms.