1.4.1 Darwin: The Theory of Natural Selection Flashcards
1
Q
Darwin based his theory of evolution by natural selection on
A
- the fossil record
- the resemblance among similar species
- artificial selection
2
Q
The theory of evolution by natural selection incorporates several concepts
A
- Species change over long periods of time.
- The number of species increases over time.
- All species descend from a common ancestor.
- New species emerge from natural selection.
3
Q
artificial selection
A
- the process by which desirable traits are selectively bred in plants and animals.
4
Q
natural selection
A
- the differential reproductive success of members of a
species.
5
Q
fossil record
A
- shows that species composition has changed over time.
6
Q
resemblance between species
A
- suggests that species weren’t just spontaneously created but that species seem to give rise to new species
7
Q
theory of natural selection
A
- Individual members of a species vary in
characteristics. - The variations are heritable.
- Populations have the potential to populate the entire earth but don’t because the capacity of survival and reproduction is not fully realized.
- Different individuals of a population leave different numbers of descendants. The individual with the greatest proportionate contribution is the “fittest.”
8
Q
Which of the following findings would have provided Darwin with evidence that evolution by natural selection did not occur?
A
- The fossil evidence shows that species composition always changes suddenly rather than gradually
9
Q
Which of the following is not one of the propositions of the theory of evolution by natural selection?
A
- Reproductive potential is limited
10
Q
True or false?
Natural selection is defined as the differential survival and reproduction of a population’s individuals that are genetically identical.
A
- false
11
Q
An adaptation is
A
- a trait in an organism that helps it survive
