WJEC GCSE Biology 2.4 Variation & Evolution

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from the WJEC GCSE Biology topic on Variation and Evolution.

Variation

Differences between individuals of the same species.

Phenotypic Variation

The difference in features between individuals of the same species, which can be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both.

Genetic Variation

Differences among individuals that are determined solely by genes.

Environmental Variation

Differences among individuals that are caused by environmental factors.

Discontinuous Variation

Variation that falls into distinct categories, such as blood groups or the ability to roll one's tongue.

Continuous Variation

Variation that can take any value within a range, often represented on a scale, like height or weight.

Sexual Reproduction

A process involving the fusion of two gametes to form a zygote, leading to genetic variation among offspring.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction that does not involve gametes or fertilization, resulting in genetically identical offspring.

Mutation

A random genetic change that can lead to new alleles or genes; these can sometimes affect an organism's phenotype.

Cystic Fibrosis

A genetic disorder caused by mutations, leading to thick mucus production and potential lung damage.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to evolutionary changes.

Survival of the Fittest

A phrase describing the mechanism of natural selection where the best-adapted individuals survive and reproduce more successfully.

Gene Therapy

A medical technique that seeks to treat genetic disorders by inserting functional genes into a patient's cells.

The Human Genome Project

An international research effort to sequence and map all the genes in the human genome.

Antibiotic Resistance

The ability of bacteria to survive and reproduce despite the presence of antibiotics, often due to genetic mutations.

Pesticide Resistance

The ability of insects to survive pesticide application due to genetic mutations providing resistance.

Warfarin Resistance

The ability of some rats to survive exposure to the anticoagulant warfarin due to genetic mutations.

Polymorphism

The occurrence of two or more forms or variations of a species, shown by distinct traits or characteristics.

Gene Frequencies

The relative frequency of an allele at a genetic locus in a population.

Family Tree

A diagram that shows the genetic relationships among individuals and tracking traits through generations.