3.0 Evidence for Evolution

Front

What is the theory of evolution?

Back

The theory of evolution explains how species change over time through processes such as natural selection, genetic drift, and mutation.

Front

What evidence does molecular biology provide for evolution?

Back

Molecular biology provides evidence for evolution by showing that closely related species have more similar DNA and protein sequences.

Front

How do embryological similarities support the theory of evolution?

Back

Embryological similarities indicate that embryos of different species have similar stages of development, suggesting a common ancestry.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Homologous structures are anatomical features in different species that have similar origins but may serve different functions.

Front

How does the fossil record contribute to our understanding of evolution?

Back

The fossil record provides evidence for evolution by showing that species have appeared and disappeared at different times in Earth's history.

Front

What is an example of empirical evidence for common ancestry?

Back

An example of empirical evidence for common ancestry is the presence of similar bone structures in the limbs of humans, cats, whales, and bats.

Front

What role does natural selection play in evolution?

Back

Natural selection is a process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

What is genetic drift?

Back

Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in allele frequencies in a population, which can lead to significant changes over time.

Front

What is the significance of transitional fossils?

Back

Transitional fossils provide evidence of the gradual changes that occur in species over time, illustrating the evolutionary process.

Front

How do vestigial structures provide evidence for evolution?

Back

Vestigial structures are remnants of organs or structures that had a function in an early ancestor but are no longer useful, indicating evolutionary change.