Chapter 1.3: An Example of Scientific Inquiry: Darwin and Evolution

Question 1

Define evolution

Answer 1

genetic change in a population of organisms

Question 2

Define artificial selection

Answer 2

 Artificial Selection- change in the genetic structure of populations due to selective breeding by humans

Question 3

Define natural selection

Answer 3

 Natural Selection- the differential reproduction of genotypes; caused by factors in the environment; leads to evolutionary change

Question 4

Define homologous structures

Answer 4

 Homologous- refers to similar structures that have the same evolutionary origin

Question 5

Define analogous structures

Answer 5

 Analogous- structures that are similar in function but different in evolutionary origin

Question 6

Define phylogenetic tree

Answer 6

 Phylogenetic Tree- a pattern of descent generated by analysis of similarities and differences among organisms

Question 7

What are the five pieces of evidence to support the theory of evolution?

Answer 7

1. The Fossil Record
2. The Age of the Earth
3. The Mechanism of Heredity
4. Comparative Anatomy
5. Molecular Evidence

Question 8

What is genetic change in a population of organisms?

Answer 8

evolution

Question 9

What is the change in the genetic structure of populations due to selective breeding by humans?

Answer 9

artificial selection

Question 10

What is the differential reproduction of genotypes; caused by factors in the environment; leads to evolutionary change?

Answer 10

natural selection

Question 11

What refers to similar structures that have the same evolutionary origin?

Answer 11

homologous structures

Question 12

What are structures that are similar in function but different in evolutionary origin?

Answer 12

analogous structures

Question 13

What is a pattern of descent generated by analysis of similarities and differences among organisms?

Answer 13

phylogenetic tree