Evolution and natural selection

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What is variation in the context of evolution?

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Variation refers to the slight differences in inherited traits among individual members of the same species.

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What are adaptations?

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Adaptations are traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. Examples include camouflage, ability to survive cold weather, and hunting skills.

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What does it mean when a species is described as extinct?

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A species is considered extinct when there are no known living individuals left.

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What is natural selection?

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Natural selection is the process by which organisms with favorable adaptations are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass those adaptations to their offspring.

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What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

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Homologous structures are similar due to shared ancestry, while analogous structures are similar due to convergent evolution, not shared ancestry.

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What is the fossil record?

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The fossil record is the collection of all known fossils and their placement in the earth's rock layers, providing evidence of past life and evolution.

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What is speciation?

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Speciation is the evolutionary process by which populations evolve to become distinct species.

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What is the role of competition in natural selection?

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Competition for resources among individuals of a species can lead to natural selection, where those better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

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What is the significance of genetic variation in a population?

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Genetic variation is crucial for a population's ability to adapt to changing environments and is a key factor in the process of evolution.

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What is artificial selection?

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Artificial selection is the process by which humans breed plants and animals for specific traits.