Biology Evolution Flashcards
(26 cards)
What is evolution?
The process by which different kinds of living organisms develop and diversify from earlier forms.
Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?
Charles Darwin.
True or False: Natural selection is the only mechanism of evolution.
False.
Fill in the blank: The mechanism by which individuals better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring is called __________.
natural selection.
What is the significance of the Galapagos Islands in Darwin’s research?
They provided unique species that helped him formulate his theory of natural selection.
What are adaptations?
Traits that enhance an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a key concept of Darwin’s theory? A) Variation B) Inheritance C) Creationism D) Natural Selection
C) Creationism.
Define ‘survival of the fittest’.
The idea that individuals best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.
What is a common misconception about evolution?
That it is a linear process leading to a perfect organism.
True or False: All species evolve at the same rate.
False.
What is speciation?
The process by which new species arise.
Fill in the blank: The fossil record provides evidence for __________.
evolution.
What role do mutations play in evolution?
They introduce new genetic variations that can be subject to natural selection.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of an adaptation? A) A bird’s ability to fly B) A fish’s gills C) Both A and B D) None of the above
C) Both A and B.
What does ‘descent with modification’ mean?
The principle that species change over time and share a common ancestor.
True or False: Evolution is a theory that is not widely accepted in the scientific community.
False.
What is artificial selection?
The intentional breeding of certain traits over others by humans.
Fill in the blank: The study of the geographical distribution of species is known as __________.
biogeography.
What is the importance of genetic variation in a population?
It enables populations to adapt to changing environments.
Multiple Choice: Which scientist’s work on genetics provided a foundation for understanding evolution? A) Gregor Mendel B) Albert Einstein C) Isaac Newton D) Louis Pasteur
A) Gregor Mendel.
What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?
Homologous structures share a common ancestry while analogous structures serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestor.
True or False: Evolution can be observed in real-time.
True.
What is convergent evolution?
The process where unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.
Fill in the blank: The theory that explains the diversity of life on Earth is known as the theory of __________.
evolution.
