Evolution and Natural Selection

Front

What is an analogous structure?

Back

Structures that have the same function but different forms or structures, indicating convergent evolution.

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What is fitness in the context of evolution?

Back

The ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its specific environment.

Front

What does Darwin's theory of evolution propose?

Back

Species change over time through the process of natural selection.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures that have the same parts but different functions, suggesting a common ancestry among organisms.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Structures that have lost their original function through evolution, such as the human appendix.

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 adaptation?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of fossil evidence in evolution?

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

Front

What is speciation?

Back

The process by which new species arise from existing species.

Front

What is genetic variation?

Back

Differences in DNA among individuals within a population, which is essential for natural selection.