A4.1 Evolution and speciation

Question 1

Evolution

Answer 1

Change in heritable characteristics of a population

Question 2

Heritable characteristics

Answer 2

traits inherited by offspring from parents with a genetic basis

Question 3

Homologous structure

Answer 3

Fundamental similarity of structure, but adapted for different functions

Question 4

Analogous structure

Answer 4

No structural similarity, but similar functions

Question 5

Speciation

Answer 5

Evolutionary process where new species come from pre existing species

Question 6

Gene pool

Answer 6

All genes and alleles that exist in interbreeding population

Question 7

Gene flow

Answer 7

Exchange of genes between populations

Question 8

Differential selection

Answer 8

Process where individuals with certain traits are more likely to survive and reproduce than others, leading to genetic change of population over time

Question 9

Sympatric speciation

Answer 9

Evolution of new species from single ancestral species while both inhabit same area

Question 10

Allopatric speciation

Answer 10

Population becomes geographically isolated, leading to evolution of distinct species due to absence of gene flow between populations

Question 11

Adaptive radiation

Answer 11

Pattern of diversification in which species that have evolved from a common ancestor occupy a range of ecological niches

Question 12

Interspecific hybrids

Answer 12

Cross breeding members of different but closely related species

Question 13

Barriers preventing hybridisation

Answer 13

Distinctive courtship behavior, production of specific pheromones, hybrid zygote may die during development

Question 14

Polypoid organism

Answer 14

Organism with more than two sets of homologous chromosomes