Natural Selection Traits
Define natural selection
A heritable trait is a characteristic that can be passed from parents to offspring through genes.
What is adaptation?
Adaptation is the process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment over time through natural selection.
What are carbon-based molecules?
Main components of carbon-based molecules include carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
What is energy flow in ecosystems?
Photosynthesis captures sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, providing energy for life.
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
What is a heritable trait?
Advantageous traits increase the likelihood of survival and reproduction, leading to a higher frequency of those traits in the population.
Definition of adaptation
Natural selection leads to adaptation by favoring individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproduction.
Main components of carbon-based molecules
Carbon-based molecules provide the structural framework for living organisms and are essential for metabolic processes.
Role of photosynthesis in energy flow
Aerobic respiration requires oxygen, while anaerobic respiration occurs without it, resulting in different energy yields.
Importance of biodiversity for ecosystem stability
Three human activities negatively impacting biodiversity include deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction.
How advantageous traits affect survival
Phenotype is the observable expression of a genotype, influencing how well an organism survives in its environment.
Natural selection leading to adaptation
Example: The peppered moth has adapted to its environment by changing color based on industrial pollution.
How carbon-based molecules contribute to life
Carbohydrates serve as energy sources and structural components in cells.
Cycling of matter in an ecosystem
Matter and energy cycle in ecosystems through food chains and food webs, with energy flowing from producers to consumers.
Effects of habitat destruction on wildlife
Habitat destruction can lead to loss of species, fragmentation of populations, and decreased biodiversity.
Relationship between phenotype and genotype
Evidence supporting natural selection includes fossil records, observed adaptations, and comparative anatomy.
How adaptation affects reproductive success
Adaptation can affect reproductive success by increasing the likelihood of survival and successful mating.
What are amino acids?
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, crucial for cell structure and function.
Difference between aerobic and anaerobic respiration
Decomposers break down dead organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem for use by producers.
Importance of preserving biodiversity
Preserving biodiversity is essential for maintaining ecosystem services, resilience, and overall health of the environment.
Evidence supporting natural selection
Genetic drift can lead to random changes in trait distribution, especially in small populations.
Example of a species adapted to its environment
Environmental changes, such as climate shifts, can lead to new adaptations as populations respond to new challenges.
Role of carbohydrates in living organisms
Carbon-based molecules are interconnected in cellular processes, forming the basis for metabolism and energy transfer.
Importance of decomposers in nutrient cycling
Human activities, such as pollution and deforestation, disrupt the natural cycling of matter and energy, harming ecosystems.
Three human activities negatively impacting biodiversity
Strategies for reducing human impact on biodiversity include conservation efforts, habitat restoration, and sustainable resource management.