Evolution Unit Review

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What is natural selection?

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Natural selection is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. It is a key mechanism of evolution.

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What is an example of artificial selection?

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People selectively breeding hamsters for size is an example of artificial selection, where humans choose specific traits to enhance.

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What does genetic diversity mean?

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Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species, which is important for a population's ability to adapt to changes.

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What is the significance of genetic variability in natural selection?

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Genetic variability is crucial for natural selection as it provides the raw material for evolution, allowing populations to adapt to changing environments.

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What is gradualism in evolution?

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Gradualism is the hypothesis that evolution occurs slowly and steadily over time, rather than in rapid bursts.

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What is gene flow?

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Gene flow is the transfer of genetic material between populations, often occurring when individuals migrate and breed with a new population.

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What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?

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Microevolution refers to small-scale changes within a species, while macroevolution involves larger-scale changes that can lead to the formation of new species.

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What is punctuated equilibrium?

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Punctuated equilibrium is a theory that proposes that species evolution is marked by long periods of stability interrupted by brief periods of rapid change.

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What is the role of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations are changes in DNA that can introduce new traits into a population, providing material for natural selection to act upon.

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What is extinction?

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Extinction is the end of an organism or a group of organisms, often due to environmental changes or loss of habitat.