Evolution

Front

What is an analogous structure?

Back

Structures in different species that have similar functions but different evolutionary origins.

Front

What is a major cause of species extinction?

Back

Drastic environmental changes that species cannot adapt to.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry, even if their functions differ.

Front

Why do humans, birds, whales, and lizards have similar arm bones?

Back

They share a common ancestor.

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

An anatomical feature that no longer seems to have a purpose in the current form of an organism.

Front

Define natural selection.

Back

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

Front

What is artificial selection?

Back

The intentional breeding of organisms to produce desired traits.

Front

What does 'survival of the fittest' mean?

Back

A phrase that describes the mechanism of natural selection, where the fittest individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Front

What is the significance of genetic variation in evolution?

Back

Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection to act upon.

Front

What is speciation?

Back

The process by which new species arise from existing species.