Science Unit 3

Front

What is genetic variation?

Back

Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA among individuals within a species. It is crucial for the survival and adaptability of a species.

Front

Why is genetic variation important for a species' survival?

Back

Genetic variation increases the likelihood that some individuals will survive environmental changes, reducing the risk of extinction.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

Natural selection is the process by which advantageous traits become more common in a population, leading to evolution.

Front

How does natural selection contribute to evolution?

Back

Natural selection favors individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproduction, leading to gradual changes in the population over time.

Front

What evidence do fossils provide about the evolution of life on Earth?

Back

Fossils show a progression from simpler to more complex life forms, indicating that life has evolved over time.

Front

What are prokaryotes?

Back

Prokaryotes are unicellular organisms that lack a nucleus, such as bacteria. They are among the oldest life forms on Earth.

Front

What are protists?

Back

Protists are a diverse group of eukaryotic microorganisms, which include organisms that are not classified as plants, animals, or fungi.

Front

What causes variations within a population?

Back

Variations within a population are caused by changes in genetic material, such as mutations and genetic recombination.

Front

What is the role of the environment in natural selection?

Back

The environment influences which traits are advantageous, thus affecting which individuals survive and reproduce.

Front

What happens to a species with no genetic variation?

Back

A species with no genetic variation may struggle to adapt to environmental changes and could eventually become extinct.