Evolution Flashcard #1

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What is natural selection?

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Natural selection is the process by which organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species.

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What is adaptation?

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Adaptation is the process by which a species develops advantageous traits that enhance its ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.

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Why are advantageous traits more likely to be passed onto offspring?

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Advantageous traits are more likely to be passed onto offspring because organisms with these traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

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What does 'Survival of the Fittest' mean?

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'Survival of the Fittest' refers to the idea that individuals best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

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Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

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Charles Darwin proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection.

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What is a mutation?

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A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of an organism that can lead to new traits.

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What is the role of environmental factors in natural selection?

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Environmental factors influence which traits are advantageous, thereby affecting which organisms survive and reproduce.

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What is genetic variation?

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Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA among individuals within a population, which is essential for natural selection.

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How do predators influence natural selection?

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Predators can influence natural selection by preying on individuals with less advantageous traits, thus allowing those with better traits to survive.

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What is the difference between artificial selection and natural selection?

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Artificial selection is the process by which humans breed organisms for specific traits, while natural selection occurs without human intervention.