Learning Cycle 2 Review

Front

What is an adaptation?

Back

An adaptation is a characteristic or trait that has evolved in a species to help it survive and reproduce in its environment.

Front

What is blubber and why is it important for Arctic animals?

Back

Blubber is a thick layer of fat under the skin of some animals, such as seals and whales, that helps them stay warm in cold environments.

Front

What does variation mean in the context of evolution?

Back

Variation refers to the differences in traits among individuals of the same species, which can lead to evolution over time.

Front

How can we determine which species is more closely related based on genetic differences?

Back

The species with fewer genetic differences in their DNA sequences is considered more closely related.

Front

What is a homologous structure?

Back

A homologous structure is a body part that is similar in structure and position but may have different functions, inherited from a common ancestor.

Front

What is an analogous structure?

Back

An analogous structure is a body part that serves a similar function in different species but does not share a common ancestor.

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A vestigial structure is a body part that has lost its original function through evolution, such as the human appendix.

Front

What is evolution?

Back

Evolution is the process by which species change over time through natural selection and genetic variation.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

How does pollution affect the environment?

Back

Pollution can harm ecosystems, leading to changes such as darker trees due to soot or a decline in species that are sensitive to pollutants.