Evolution Crossword Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What term refers to structures that are similar?

Homologous (correct)

Extinction

Adaptation

Coevolution

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?

A pattern of evolution where a species is stable for a long time then rapidly changes Signup and view all the answers

What is the origin of species?

Darwin's book Signup and view all the answers

Define natural selection.

The process by which evolution occurs Signup and view all the answers

What is significant about turtles in evolution?

Had different shaped shells depending on the island they were from Signup and view all the answers

What is a theory in scientific terms?

A well-supported testable explanation Signup and view all the answers

What is coevolution?

When two species evolve together Signup and view all the answers

What does 'survival of the fittest' refer to?

Natural selection is also known as this Signup and view all the answers

What are the Galapagos Islands known for?

Islands that Darwin visited Signup and view all the answers

What is descent with modifications?

The principle that states that living things are descended from ancient ones Signup and view all the answers

What was the Beagle?

The ship that Darwin traveled on Signup and view all the answers

What does convergent evolution mean?

When two unrelated organisms look alike Signup and view all the answers

What does diversity refer to in biology?

The variety of living things Signup and view all the answers

What is extinction?

When organisms disappear from the earth Signup and view all the answers

Who proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

Darwin Signup and view all the answers

What is speciation?

The formation of new species Signup and view all the answers

Define evolution.

Change over time Signup and view all the answers

What is isolation's role in evolution?

Required for new species to form Signup and view all the answers

What are fossils?

Preserved remains of ancient organisms Signup and view all the answers

What is notable about finches in evolution?

Had different beaks depending on the island they were from Signup and view all the answers

What does geology study?

The study of the earth Signup and view all the answers

What are vestigial structures?

Structures that have no current function Signup and view all the answers

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!