Evolution Chapter 11

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary and concepts discussed in Chapter 11 on Evolution, emphasizing mechanisms, definitions, and types of evolutionary processes.

Evolution

The process by which species change over time through variations and natural selection.

Natural Selection

The mechanism by which favorable traits increase an individual's likelihood of survival and reproduction.

Genetic Drift

The random change in allele frequencies in a population, especially in small populations.

Bottleneck Effect

A sharp reduction in the size of a population due to environmental events or human activities.

Founder Effect

When a new colony is established by a few members of the original population, leading to a reduced genetic variation.

Homology

Similarity in structures due to shared ancestry, indicating evolutionary relationships.

Vestigial Structures

Remnants of organs or structures that had a function in an early ancestor but have since lost their original use.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Prezygotic Barriers

Reproductive barriers that occur before fertilization, preventing mating or fertilization.

Postzygotic Barriers

Reproductive barriers that occur after fertilization, affecting the viability or reproductive capacity of the offspring.

Allopatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when populations are geographically isolated from each other.

Sympatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when populations diverge while living in the same geographic area.

Allele Frequencies

The proportion of different alleles of a gene in a population.

Hardy-Weinberg Principle

A mathematical equation used to predict allele and genotype frequencies in a non-evolving population.

Adaptation

A heritable trait that enhances the survival and reproduction of an organism in its environment.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to new traits and genetic variation.