Natural Selection PHET

1) Click on LAB

2) Click on "Rabbit Teeth" on the left under the dominant column to add a mutation.

3) Click “Add a Mate”.

4) After 3 generations have passed on the graph, pause the simulation.

Question # 1: Based on the population numbers, which type of tooth is the predominant trait so far?

• Short Teeth

• Long Teeth

Question #2: Do the current environmental conditions favor one type of tooth? Use evidence to support your answer. (Hint: the “proportions” setting next to the graph can provide evidence as well)

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Question #3: PREDICT: What would happen to both the populations of long teeth and short teeth rabbits if the food became tough? What would happen to the proportion of long teeth to short teeth.

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

1) DO NOT RESET. Click the “tough food box”.

2) Then, click "Play" to restart the simulation.

3) After 7 generations have passed, pause the simulation to check your predictions.

Question #4: Were your predictions correct? Use evidence to support your claims.

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Question #5: Write the REASONING for the following claim: Long teeth in rabbits is a favorable mutation when food sources are tough.

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

1) Reset everything using the "Back Arrow" button. Click on the "Fur" on the RIGHT under the recessive column to add a mutation.

2) Click “Add a Mate”. 

3) After 3 generations have passed, click "Wolves" while letting the simulation run.

4) Pause the simulation after 8 generations. 

Question #6: How did the proportion of white bunnies to brown bunnies change after wolves were introduced to the environment?  What would be a reasonable explanation for this change?

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Question #7: Based on the evidence, what is the difference between a dominant trait (white fur) and a predominant trait?

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

1) DO NOT RESET. Click "Snow".

2) Click "Play"  to restart the simulation.

3) After 12 generations have passed, pause the simulation.

Question#8: What effect did the change in environmental conditions have on the rabbit population?

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Question #9: What factors determine whether or not a mutation will become a predominant trait?

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF