Evolution - Natural Selection

Front

What are adaptations?

Back

Structures, functions, or behaviors that help a species survive.

Front

What is relative dating?

Back

A method used to determine the age of fossils by comparing their placement in layers of rock.

Front

What is an adaptation in the context of natural selection?

Back

A specific variation that makes an organism better suited to its environment.

Front

Which factor did NOT influence Charles Darwin's ideas about natural selection?

Back

How DNA is copied and passed on to offspring.

Front

What physical trait did Darwin theorize was most affected by evolution in finches?

Back

Beak shape.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in traits.

Front

What role do fossils play in understanding evolution?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of how species have changed over time.

Front

What is the significance of the Galapagos Islands in Darwin's studies?

Back

They were home to unique species that helped him formulate his theory of natural selection.

Front

What is variation in the context of evolution?

Back

Differences between individuals in a population that can affect their survival and reproduction.