Unit 7.1-7.3

Flashcards summarizing key concepts related to natural selection, evolution, and the contributions of Charles Darwin.

Natural Selection

A process in which individuals with certain traits tend to survive and reproduce at higher rates due to those traits.

Charles Darwin

English naturalist known for his research on evolution and natural selection, particularly at the Galapagos Islands.

Biogeography

The geographic distribution of species; a field of study that Darwin was interested in.

Descent with Modification

A modern definition of evolution proposed by Darwin, describing the change in genetic makeup of a population over time.

Adaptations

Inherited characteristics of organisms that enhance their survival and reproduction.

Artificial Selection

The selective breeding of domesticated plants and animals to encourage desirable traits.

Heritable Traits

Characteristics that can be passed from parent to offspring, contributing to evolution.

Favorable Traits

Traits that lead to survival and reproduction, accumulating in the population over time.

Phenotypic Variations

Observable differences in traits among individuals in a population that natural selection acts upon.

Evolution

Change in the genetic makeup of a population over time; includes concepts of descent with modification.

Convergent evolution

The process where unrelated or distantly related organisms develop similar characteristics or adaptations in response to comparable environmental challenges.

Divergent evolution

The phenomenon in which related species become increasingly different over time, often driven by various environmental influences and the need for different adaptations.