History of Life II

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts discussed in the lecture on the history of life, evolutionary mechanisms, and extinction events.

Molecular Clock

A method used to estimate evolutionary divergence times based on genetic changes.

Cambrian Explosion

A significant period in evolutionary history marked by the sudden appearance of a wide variety of complex life forms.

Background Extinction

The normal rate of extinction of various species as a result of normal environmental change.

K-Pg Extinction

The extinction event around 66 million years ago, believed to be caused by an asteroid strike, leading to the demise of the dinosaurs.

Ecological Opportunity

The availability of new resources or niches that can drive adaptive radiations.

Hox Genes

A group of related genes that control the body plan of an embryo along the head-tail axis.