Flashcard #11 - Mutations and Adaptations

Front

Why might some plants have thorns?

Back

To stay safe from animals that want to eat the plant.

Front

True or false: mutations create genetic diversity?

Back

True.

Front

Why are advantageous traits more likely to be passed onto offspring?

Back

Because they are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Front

Mutations can be...

Back

Harmful, Beneficial, Neutral, or All of the Above.

Front

What is a permanent change in the DNA sequence that can affect a single gene or group of genes?

Back

Gene Mutation.

Front

What is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring?

Back

Natural Selection.

Front

What is genetic diversity?

Back

The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.

Front

What is an adaptation?

Back

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

Front

What is a harmful mutation?

Back

A mutation that negatively affects an organism's ability to survive or reproduce.

Front

What is a beneficial mutation?

Back

A mutation that enhances an organism's fitness in its environment.