Evolution 101
The Theory of Evolution states that…
(Break it down)
Populations change over time across generations.
This mechanism of evolution happens by random chance, and is often caused by a sudden shrinking in population size.
Genetic drift
Evolution acts on groups of organisms. These groups are known as _____________.
Populations
The human appendix is an example of this type of evidence for evolution.
Vestigial structure
Darwin observed this type of bird during his time in the Galapagos Islands.
Finches
This mechanism of evolution is the ultimate source of genetic variation.
Mutation
This term refers to similar structures found across different species.
Homologous structures.
Species of animals that developed on different continents can develop features that are similar to each other.
This is an example of this type of evidence.
Geographic distribution
This scientist is credited with developing the theory of evolution.
Charles Darwin
Sexual selection is a mechanism of evolution which involves organisms choosing their mate because of certain traits.
It can also be known by this other term.
Non-random mating
This term refers to the breeding of plants and animals to produce desirable traits.
Artificial Selection
The study of the development of organisms before birth is known as _____________.
Embryology
Populations may need to change because of many reasons, such as…
(Name 3)
Climate change, lack of resources, disease, natural disaster, new predator
A population of fish moves to a new lake and creates offspring with the fish already there, demonstrating this mechanism of evolution.
Gene flow
The formation of a new species is known as _____________.
Speciation
The fossil record provides a look into the history of life on Earth. Paleontologists use these two methods to determine the age of fossils.
(Name both)
Absolute/Radioactive dating
Relative dating
Darwin’s theory of evolution is based on these two ideas.
Species change over generations.
Natural selection drives these changes.
There are five mechanisms of evolution. However, only this mechanism causes adaptations in species.
Natural selection
This term describes an environmental factor that is most important in restricting the size of a population.
Limiting factor
A scientific theory is more than an __________ _________. It can never be ___________. As we find more ____________ it becomes more widely accepted.
Educated guess; Proven; Evidence