FLASHCARD- Evolution and Charles Darwin

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What is evolution?

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Evolution is the process through which species change over time through variations and natural selection.

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What is natural selection?

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Natural selection is the mechanism by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

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What are fossils?

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Fossils are preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms that provide evidence of past life.

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What is a vestigial structure?

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

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What is a homologous structure?

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Homologous structures are body parts in different species that share a common ancestry, such as the forelimbs of humans and whales.

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What is an analogous structure?

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Analogous structures are body parts in different species that serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestry, like wings of birds and insects.

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What did Darwin observe about finches in the Galapagos Islands?

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Darwin observed that finches had different beak shapes and sizes adapted to their specific diets and environments.

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What is the significance of the fossil record?

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The fossil record provides evidence of the history of life on Earth and shows how species have changed over time.

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What is speciation?

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Speciation is the process by which new species arise from existing species due to evolutionary changes.

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What is adaptation?

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Adaptation is a trait that enhances an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.