Evolution and Evidence

Flashcards about evolution and the evidence that has been collected up to this point to verify that it actually occurs.

Biogeography

The study of the geographic distribution of organisms, both living and extinct.

Local Species Variation

Closely related species in different locations exhibit slight variations due to localized climate changes.

Global Species Variation

Species that are distantly related can develop similarities due to similar environments.

Radioactive Dating

A method used to determine the age of rocks and fossils by analyzing the decay of radioactive elements.

Carbon-14 (C14)

A radioactive element absorbed by living organisms that decays after fossilization, used in radioactive dating.

Carbon-12

The stable form of carbon used in comparison with Carbon-14 to determine the age of fossils.

Intermediate Stage Fossils

Fossils that exhibit traits of two different groups of organisms to show evolutionary transition.

Homologous Structures

Structures in different species that have similar underlying anatomy due to common ancestry.

Descent with modification

The presence of similar structures in different animals that evolved from a common ancestor with a basic version of that structure.

Lobe-finned fish

A fish with fleshy fins, considered a common ancestor to many modern tetrapods.

Analogous Structures

Structures that have similar functions but different underlying anatomy and evolutionary origins.

Vestigial Structures

Inherited structures that have lost most or all of their original function in a species.

Ear Muscles (Vestigial)

Muscles in the ears that have no apparent function.

Embryology

The resemblance of embryos from different species during early stages of development, suggesting a common ancestor.

Common Genetic Code

All living organisms use DNA and RNA to carry information and direct protein synthesis.

Less Genetic Difference

Indicates a closer evolutionary relationship between two organisms.

Organism Location

The location of organisms in relation to their ancestors.

Radioactive Decay

A radioactive element that decays at a predictable rate.

Common Ancestor

Animals with similar structures evolved from a common ancestor, with a basic version of a structure.

Genetics and Molecular Biology

Life has a common genetic code.