Evolutionary History Chapter 1 Flashcard

Front

What is evolution?

Back

Evolution is the process through which species change over time through variations and natural selection.

Front

What is a common ancestor?

Back

A common ancestor is a species from which two or more different species have evolved.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

What is a fossil?

Back

A fossil is the preserved remains or impression of a once-living organism, often found in sedimentary rock.

Front

What is a homologous structure?

Back

Homologous structures are body parts in different species that share a common ancestry, even if they have different functions.

Front

What is an adaptation?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the atlas bone?

Back

The atlas bone is a vertebra that supports the skull and allows for head movement; it is found in many vertebrates.

Front

What is the role of the femur bone?

Back

The femur bone is the thigh bone in vertebrates, crucial for locomotion and supporting body weight.

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A vestigial structure is a body part that has lost its original function through evolution, like the human appendix.

Front

What is the difference between convergent and divergent evolution?

Back

Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated species develop similar traits, while divergent evolution occurs when related species become more different.