topic 1
A change in DNA that can create a new variation in a trait
mutation
Fossil records of the horse show that over 50 million years, the species changed from the small Hyracotherium to this modern animal.
Horse
An inherited trait that makes an individual different from other members of its species.
A Variation
He is considered the main discoverer of the theory of Natural Selection.
Charles Darwin
The type of symbiotic relationship that benefits both species involved (e.g., Clownfish and Sea Anemone
Mutualism
Structures that have lost their original function (e.g., whale pelvis, human appendix)
vestigial Structure
A "Vestigial Structure" helps prove evolution because it shows a structure that was once useful to an ancestor but is this
No Longer Needed
An example of a behavioral adaptation found in geese during the winter.
Migrating
The change in characteristics of organisms over time leading to new species.
Evolution
One of the "four pillars" of evidence, these preserved remains show how bone structures changed drastically over millions of years
Fossils
Similar body structures in different species (like mammal forearms) that point to a common ancestor
Homologous Structure
Scientists compare the DNA of different organisms to map out family trees; a high similarity in DNA sequences suggests the organisms share this.
Common Ancestor
Any behavior or physical characteristic developed over time to help an organism survive.
Adaptation
According to the "Big Picture" of Natural Selection, these two factors are needed for new species to arise: Traits favored by the environment and this.
Over A Long Period Of Time
This "pillar" of evidence reveals that closely related species have fewer differences in their genetic codes
DNA
The process where new rock layers form on top of old ones, helping scientists determine the order of events.
Relative Dating
Evidence from Anatomy: These structures show different species have the same bone layout, proving a common ancestor.
Homologous Structures
It is important for plants to disperse their seeds far away from the parent plant to reduce this.
Competition for Resources
A method used to determine the specific age of rocks or fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive elements.
Radiometric Dating
Fossil records of the horse show they grew larger in size and this part of their body changed shape
Teeth and Skull
The theory that organisms with traits best suited for their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Natural Selection
Scientists compare fossils, similar bone structures, and DNA sequences to show that different species are related and have changed over time.
What is… Evidence of Evolution
The seed dispersal method involving seeds shooting away from the plant (e.g., Witch Hazel)
Explosion or Bursting
In the "Guinea Pig" example from your notes, hair length and fur color were examples of these.
A Variation
A high similarity in DNA sequences suggests organisms share a close common ancestor, NOT that one organism evolved into the other yesterday or that they are this.
Not Related At All