chapter 4 Flashcards
What is a mutation?
Changes in the genetic material (DNA) of an organism.
What is an adaptation?
A structure, behaviour, or physiological process that helps an organism survive and reproduce in a particular environment.
What is a variation?
A variation is a visible or invisible difference that helps an individual from a population survive. It is likely that a variation will be passed from survivor to its offspring.
What is a biological species?
A group of reproductively compatible populations — can interbreed.
What is genetic variation a result of?
Genetic variation in a population is due to the variety of genetic information in all individuals of the population.
What are mutagens?
Agents that can cause mutations in an individuals DNA.
Ex: UV Radiation
In what case is a mutation passed on to new generations (offspring)?
When the mutation has altered the DNA in a gamete (reproductive cell)
what is selective advantage?
a characteristic that improves chances of survival, usually in a changing environment
result of mutations
what is natural selection?
Organisms that are more adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and pass on the genes that aided their success. This process causes species to change and diverge over time.
what is selective pressure?
environmental conditions that select for certain characteristics of individuals and against others
