Evolution and Natural Selection

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What is a scientific theory?

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A well-tested concept that explains a wide range of observations.

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What is natural selection?

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The process by which individuals that are better suited to the environment survive and reproduce, passing down their genes to their offspring.

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What characteristic did Darwin observe about the finches on the Galapagos Islands?

Back

Darwin observed that the finches had different beak shapes adapted to their feeding habits.

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What are fossils?

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Remains of ancient organisms preserved in rock.

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What are variations?

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Slight differences within members of the same species, such as feather color or beak length.

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What is evolution?

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The change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations.

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What is adaptation?

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A trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment.

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What is the role of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations are changes in DNA that can lead to new traits, which may be beneficial, harmful, or neutral.

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What is the significance of genetic diversity?

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Genetic diversity increases the chances of survival and adaptability of a species.

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What is the difference between artificial selection and natural selection?

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Artificial selection is the process by which humans breed organisms for desired traits, while natural selection is driven by environmental pressures.