Unit 2 Evolution Winter 2025

Front

What is adaptation in the context of natural selection?

Back

Adaptation refers to a trait that enhances an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment, such as a beetle's camouflage.

Front

Define genetic drift.

Back

Genetic drift is the change in allele frequencies in a population due to random events or circumstances.

Front

What is evolution?

Back

Evolution is the process by which populations inherit small changes over long periods of time, leading to the development of new species.

Front

What do mammals have in common?

Back

Mammals are characterized by having mammary glands, hair or fur, and being warm-blooded.

Front

What is a gene pool?

Back

A gene pool is the total genetic information available in a population.

Front

What is overproduction in natural selection?

Back

Overproduction refers to the phenomenon where organisms produce more offspring than can survive, leading to competition for resources.

Front

Explain the concept of selection in natural selection.

Back

Selection is the process by which certain traits become more common in a population because they provide a survival or reproductive advantage.

Front

What is genetic variation?

Back

Genetic variation is the diversity in gene frequencies within a population, which is essential for natural selection.

Front

How does natural selection lead to evolution?

Back

Natural selection leads to evolution by favoring individuals with advantageous traits, allowing them to reproduce and pass those traits to the next generation.

Front

What is the difference between primary and secondary succession?

Back

Primary succession occurs in lifeless areas where soil has not yet formed, while secondary succession occurs in areas where a disturbance has destroyed an existing community but soil remains.