Evolution Flashcards
Describe evolution
Evolution is the changes in organisms over generations as a result of genomic variations.
Describe selection
Natural selection is the non random increase in frequency of DNA sequences that increase survival and the non random reduction in the frequency of deleterious sequences.
Stabilising selection
An average phenotype is selected for and extremes of the phenotype are selected against.
Directional selection
One extreme of the phenotype range is selected for
Disruptive selection
Two or more phenotypes are selected for
What is vertical gene transfer
Where genes are transferred from parent to offspring as a result of sexual or asexual reproduction.
What is horizontal gene transfer
Where genes are transferred between individuals in the same generation.
Where is natural selection more rapid
In prokaryotes
Where can prokaryotes exchange their genetic material
Horizontally, resulting in faster evolutionary change than organisms that only use vertical transfer
What is a phenotype
The traits/ characteristics of an organism. E.g. height, hair colour
What is a genotype
The genetics of an individual organism. E.g. eye colour
