Questions and Answers
What term refers to structures that are similar?
What is adaptation?
A characteristic that helps an organism survive
What is adaptive radiation?
When one species evolves into many
What does punctuated equilibrium refer to?
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What is the origin of species?
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Define natural selection.
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What is significant about turtles in evolution?
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What is a theory in scientific terms?
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What is coevolution?
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What does 'survival of the fittest' refer to?
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What are the Galapagos Islands known for?
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What is descent with modifications?
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What was the Beagle?
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What does convergent evolution mean?
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What does diversity refer to in biology?
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What is extinction?
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Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?
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What is speciation?
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Define evolution.
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What is isolation's role in evolution?
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What are fossils?
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What is notable about finches in evolution?
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What does geology study?
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What are vestigial structures?
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Study Notes
Key Concepts in Evolution
- Homologous Structures: Similar structures found in different species indicating common ancestry.
- Adaptation: Traits that enhance an organism's ability to survive in its environment.
- Adaptive Radiation: Evolutionary process where a single species diversifies into multiple forms to adapt to various environments.
- Punctuated Equilibrium: Evolutionary theory describing long periods of stability followed by rapid changes in species.
- Natural Selection: Mechanism driving evolution, where organisms with favorable traits have higher survival and reproduction rates.
Historical Context
- "The Origin of Species": Charles Darwin's seminal work outlining the theory of evolution.
- Darwin's Voyage on the Beagle: The ship that facilitated Darwin's observations leading to his theories on natural selection.
- Galapagos Islands: Key location for Darwin's studies, noted for species variation like turtles and finches.
Evolutionary Principles
- Survival of the Fittest: Alternative term for natural selection, emphasizing survival advantages for advantageous traits.
- Descent with Modifications: Concept stating that modern species evolved from ancient ancestors through gradual changes.
- Speciation: The process through which new species arise, often necessitated by isolation mechanisms.
Interactions Between Species
- Coevolution: The simultaneous evolution of two species in response to each other, highlighting interconnectedness in ecosystems.
- Convergent Evolution: When unrelated species develop similar traits, often due to similar environmental challenges.
Biodiversity and Extinction
- Diversity: Represents the variety of living organisms, essential for ecosystem health and resilience.
- Extinction: The process of species disappearing permanently, affecting biodiversity and ecological balance.
- Fossils: Preserved remains providing evidence for the existence of past life forms and supporting the theory of evolution.
Miscellaneous Concepts
- Isolation: A key factor in speciation, as separation prevents gene flow between populations.
- Vestigial Structures: Body parts that have lost their original function through evolution, indicative of an organism's ancestry.
- Geology: Scientific study of Earth's structure and history, essential for understanding the timing and processes of evolution.
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Description
Test your knowledge of key evolutionary concepts with this crossword flashcard quiz. Each card features a word related to evolution and its definition, perfect for students studying biology. Challenge yourself and enhance your understanding of evolutionary processes today!