The Theory
How can DNA evidence be used to determine relatedness?
More common base pairs in a DNA sequence means two species are more closely related
What is convergent evolution?
In convergent evolution populations with a different ancestor become more similar overtime due to a similar environment
What is asexual reproduction?
single parent produces offspring that are genetically identical clones of that parent
What is a fossil?
Any trace or remains of a once-living organsim that has been preserved by natural processes.
What is natural selection?
Organisms with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those advantageous traits to their offspring
What is relative dating?
The process of determining if one rock or geologic event is older or younger than another, without knowing their specific ages. Older rocks are below younger rocks.
What is an adaptation?
Any kind of inherited trait that improves an organism's chances of survival and reproduction in a given environment.
structures used by a common ancestor that no longer have a function
Vestigial structures
What is a phylogenetic/evolutionary tree?
Type of diagram that shows the relationship of organisms to their ancestors as well as common ancestry.
What type of reproduction increases genetic diversity?
Sexual reproduction
What are the conditions needed for a fossil to occur?
buried quickly/remain undisturbed, be in a low oxygen environment, have hard parts and be in a mineral rich environment
What is "Survival of the Fittest?"
Slang term that descibes how organisms that posess the best traits or adaptations for a particutlar environment are the ones that will successfully pass down their traits to their offspring.
what is a Selection pressure?
A factor that affects an organism's ability to survive and reproduce, thereby driving natural selection
Structures that are Evidence of divergent evolution
Homologous structures
Movement of individuals between populations which may result in the addition of new alleles into the population.
Gene flow
What are the 3 steps in natural selection?
Variation, competition and selection
What is divergent evolution?
Divergent evolution occurs from a common ancestor while convergent does not. In divergent evolution populations become more different overtime.
What is a mutation?
Change in DNA that can occur spontaneously or be caused by external factors like radiation or chemicals
What is comparative embryology?
A type of evidence for evolution that compares the similarities of embryos of different species while developing in the womb.
changes due to chance events. E.g., sudden population reduction or the formation of a new colony
What is genetic drift?