SB4 Flashcards

Front

What is evolution?

Back

The gradual change in the inherited traits of a population over time

Front

Describe Darwin's theory of evolution

Back

All species of organisms arise and develop through the natural selection of small, inherited variations that increase the individual's ability to compete, survive, and reproduce.

Front

Why does evolution occur?

Back

Due to natural Selection

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

The idea that the fittest survive and pass along their traits to their offspring.

Front

Describe how antibiotic resistance in bacteria can be used an example to illustrate the process of evolution

Back

Genetic Variation exists due to spontaneous mutations; antibiotics act as selection pressure; mutations give bacteria antibiotic resistance; when antibiotic is administered the bacteria is killed but the resistant ones survive; these then reproduce, creating more resistant bacteriums; so the frequency of antibacterial resistance increases.

Front

Why is development for antibiotic resistance in bacteria a good study of evolution?

Back

Bacteria reproduce very rapidly, allowing first hand observation of evolution.

Front

How can observations of fossils provide evidence of evolution?

Back

Older fossils contain simpler organisms, newer fossils contain more complex organisms. The comparison shows that simple organisms evolved into more complex life forms.

Front

What fossils provide evidence of evolution?

Back

Ardi 4.4m years ago, Lucy 3.2m, Leakey's discoveries 1.6m years ago.

Front

How has the development of stone tools provide evidence for evolution?

Back

Tools become more sophisticated over time which shows an increased size brain.

Front

What is a pentadactyl limb?

Back

A limb with five digits present in all vertebrates, with the same bones in different forms.