Evolution and Natural Selection

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What is evolution?

Back

The process by which different kinds of living organisms develop and diversify from earlier forms during the history of the earth.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Front

What is natural selection?

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The process by which organisms that are better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-4

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What are adaptations?

Back

Traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Structures that have lost their original function through the course of evolution.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is a homologous structure?

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An anatomical feature in different species that is similar due to shared ancestry.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

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What is an analogous structure?

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An anatomical feature in different species that serves similar functions but evolved independently.

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What is genetic variation?

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Differences in DNA among individuals, which can lead to variations in traits.

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NGSS.MS-LS3-2

NGSS.MS-LS4-4

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What is the significance of the fossil record?

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It provides evidence of the history of life on Earth and shows how species have changed over time.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

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What is speciation?

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The process by which new species arise from existing species.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What role does mutation play in evolution?

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Mutations introduce new genetic variations, which can lead to new traits in a population.

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NGSS.MS-LS3-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-4