Ch 17/18 Evolution Flashcard Review

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Vestigial structures are body parts that have lost their original function through evolution. An example is the hind leg bones in whales.

Front

What did Darwin propose about finch species on the Galapagos Islands?

Back

Darwin proposed that each finch species evolved from a common ancestor that migrated from the mainland, adapting to different habitats.

Front

What is the significance of isolation in Darwin's theory of evolution?

Back

Isolation allows species to evolve independently, leading to the development of different traits and adaptations.

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

What is artificial selection?

Back

Artificial selection is the process by which humans breed organisms for specific traits.

Front

What does Darwin's theory of evolution suggest about species?

Back

Darwin's theory suggests that species change over time through processes like natural selection.

Front

What role does genetic variation play in evolution?

Back

Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection, allowing some individuals to survive and reproduce better than others.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures are similar due to shared ancestry, while analogous structures are similar due to convergent evolution, not common ancestry.

Front

What is the concept of descent with modification?

Back

Descent with modification refers to the passing of traits from parent to offspring, with changes occurring over generations.

Front

How does a disease affect a population's evolution?

Back

A disease can lead to natural selection if some individuals have resistance, allowing them to survive and reproduce.