Evolution Part 1 Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is the theory of evolution?
The theory that species change over time through processes like natural selection and genetic drift.
True or False: Evolution only occurs in animals.
False
Fill in the blank: The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring is called __________.
natural selection
What is a common ancestor?
An ancestral species from which multiple species have evolved.
Which scientist is most famously associated with the theory of evolution?
Charles Darwin
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of evolution? A) Mutation B) Genetic Drift C) Photosynthesis D) Natural Selection
C) Photosynthesis
What are homologous structures?
Anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry.
True or False: All mutations are harmful to an organism.
False
What is speciation?
The process by which new species arise from existing species.
Fill in the blank: The preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms are known as __________.
fossils
What is genetic drift?
Random changes in allele frequencies in a population.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of artificial selection? A) Natural disasters B) Selective breeding of plants C) Climate change D) Habitat destruction
B) Selective breeding of plants
What does the term ‘fitness’ refer to in evolutionary biology?
The ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its environment.
True or False: Natural selection can lead to the evolution of new species.
True
What is the significance of the peppered moth in studies of evolution?
It demonstrates natural selection in response to environmental changes.
Fill in the blank: The genetic makeup of an organism is referred to as its __________.
genotype
What is a mutation?
A change in the DNA sequence of an organism.
Multiple Choice: Which type of evolution occurs when unrelated species evolve similar traits? A) Convergent evolution B) Divergent evolution C) Coevolution D) Parallel evolution
A) Convergent evolution
What is adaptive radiation?
The rapid evolution of diversely adapted species from a common ancestor.
True or False: Evolution is a goal-oriented process.
False
What role does the environment play in evolution?
It influences which traits are favorable for survival and reproduction.
Fill in the blank: The observable characteristics of an organism are referred to as its __________.
phenotype
What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?
Microevolution refers to small evolutionary changes within a species, while macroevolution refers to large-scale changes that can lead to the emergence of new species.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a vestigial structure? A) Whale’s pelvic bones B) Bird’s wings C) Human arm D) All of the above
A) Whale’s pelvic bones
