Evolution and Adaptation Quiz

Charles Darwin's theory of evolution suggests that different species have evolved from simpler life forms and that the organisms able to survive are those that have adapted best to their environment.

Scientists have used fossil evidence to look at how organisms have adapted over millions of years and how their characteristics have changed.

A species may become extinct if it experiences new predators, new diseases, destruction of habitats, changes to the environment, or increased competition for resources.

<p>How do mutations contribute to genetic variation within a population? Provide examples.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Mutations are changes in DNA that can be random or caused by environmental factors. They can be harmful, neutral, or helpful, resulting in a new trait. Mutations are an important source of genetic variation within a population as they introduce new alleles into the gene pool. For example, a mutation that confers resistance to a certain pesticide can spread rapidly through a population if that pesticide is widely used.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>How does natural selection contribute to speciation? Explain with an example.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Natural selection can lead to speciation by favoring traits that increase reproductive success in a particular environment. Over time, these traits can accumulate in a population, leading to the formation of a new species that is adapted to a different niche. For example, Darwin's finches in the Galapagos Islands evolved different beak shapes and sizes to exploit different food sources, which eventually led to the formation of multiple species of finches.</p> Signup and view all the answers