Unit 3 Test

Front

What is adaptation in the context of species?

Back

Adaptation refers to the process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment through changes in its traits, often influenced by genetic variability and reproductive rates.

Front

How does a species’ reproductive rate affect its adaptation?

Back

A species’ reproductive rate can accelerate the pace of adaptation by increasing the number of offspring, which may carry beneficial traits that enhance survival and reproduction.

Front

What is genetic engineering?

Back

Genetic engineering is a scientific process that involves altering an organism's genetic material by adding, deleting, or modifying DNA segments to produce desirable traits or eliminate undesirable ones.

Front

Define niche in an ecosystem.

Back

A niche is the role or function of a species within its ecosystem, including its habitat, resource use, and interactions with other organisms.

Front

What is species diversity?

Back

Species diversity refers to the number and variety of different species present in a biological community, contributing to the overall health and stability of ecosystems.

Front

Explain vertical ocean circulation.

Back

Vertical ocean circulation is driven by the sinking of cold, dense ocean water and the rising of warm, less-dense water, which helps distribute heat and nutrients in the ocean.

Front

What is the significance of genetic variability in adaptation?

Back

Genetic variability is crucial for adaptation as it provides the raw material for natural selection, allowing populations to evolve and adjust to changing environmental conditions.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

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

Front

Define reproductive isolation.

Back

Reproductive isolation is a mechanism that prevents different species from interbreeding, maintaining species integrity and promoting speciation.

Front

What is speciation?

Back

Speciation is the evolutionary process by which new biological species arise, often due to genetic divergence and reproductive isolation.