Evolution

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What is embryology?

Back

A type of evidence supporting evolution; studies show that vertebrates show similarities during the earliest stages of development, indicating a common ancestor.

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What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A structure that has lost its original function through evolution; for example, the pelvis bone in whales.

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What is a mutation?

Back

An error in DNA copying that results in a new trait.

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What is natural selection?

Back

The process by which nature decides which organisms survive and reproduce based on their traits.

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What is variation in biology?

Back

The genetic differences between organisms of the same species.

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What is adaptation?

Back

A heritable physical or behavioral trait that serves a specific function and improves an organism's fitness or survival.

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What is a homologous structure?

Back

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

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What is an analogous structure?

Back

An anatomical feature in different species that serves a similar function but does not share a common ancestry.

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What is speciation?

Back

The process by which new species arise from existing species.

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What is the role of fossils in evolution?

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Fossils provide evidence of past life forms and show how species have changed over time.