BIOL 101: Evolution Concepts

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to the theory of evolution, microevolution, and the mechanisms proposed by Charles Darwin.

Theory of Evolution

A well-substantiated explanation about the mechanisms of biological evolution, which includes the concept of natural selection.

Microevolution

A change in a population’s gene pool over generations; often measured by changes in allele frequencies.

Natural Selection

The process through which individuals with certain heritable traits tend to survive and reproduce more successfully.

Descent with Modification

Darwin’s phrase describing the principle that species evolve and change over time from a common ancestor.

Homology

A similarity in characters resulting from shared ancestry; provides evidence for evolution.

Vestigial Structures

Features of an organism that are historical remnants of structures that served important functions in ancestors.

Artificial Selection

The selective breeding of domesticated plants and animals to promote the occurrence of desirable traits.

Allele

An alternative form of a gene that may produce distinguishable phenotypic effects.

Paleontology

The scientific study of fossils to understand evolutionary relationships.

Geological Forces

Natural processes such as earthquakes and erosion that change the Earth's surface over time.

Cloven-Hoofed Mammal

A type of mammal characterized by having split hooves; significant in the evolutionary study of whales.

Genetic Variation

The diversity in gene frequencies within a population; essential for the process of evolution.

Population

A group of individuals of the same species living in the same area that can interbreed.

Evolutionary Tree

A diagram that represents the evolutionary relationships among different species.

Microevolutionary Forces

Factors such as natural selection, mutation, gene flow, and genetic drift that cause changes in allele frequencies.

Mutation

A change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA, providing the raw material for genetic variation.

Adaptive Traits

Inherited characteristics that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment.