Evolution Review

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What is natural selection?

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Natural selection is the process by which organisms that are better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. It is often summarized as 'survival of the fittest.'

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What are homologous structures?

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Homologous structures are anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry, even if they have different functions. An example is the forelimbs of mammals.

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Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

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Charles Darwin proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection.

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What is the significance of the dark moth in a soot-covered environment?

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The dark moth is more successful in a soot-covered environment because it is better camouflaged from predators, illustrating natural selection.

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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. An example is the human appendix.

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What is the difference between analogous and homologous structures?

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Analogous structures are body parts in different species that have similar functions but do not share a common ancestry, while homologous structures share a common ancestry but may have different functions.

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What does 'survival of the fittest' mean?

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'Survival of the fittest' refers to the idea that individuals best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

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What is an example of evolution in action?

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An example of evolution in action is the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

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What role does genetic variation play in evolution?

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Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection, allowing some individuals to be better suited to their environment.

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What is adaptation?

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Adaptation is a trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment.