Evidence of Evolution

Question 1

Microevolution

Answer 1

Microevolution refers to small-scale changes in the genetic composition of a population over a few generations. These changes can accumulate and lead to variation within a species.

the change in gene or allele frequencies in a population from one generation to the next.

Question 2

Macroevolution

Answer 2

Macroevolution refers to large-scale evolutionary changes that occur over long periods, leading to the emergence of new species, genera, families, and higher taxonomic groups. It encompasses the broader patterns and processes of evolution.

the large scale evolutionary change that results in speciation. The development of an entirely new species.
-Used to determine phylogeny (the evolutionary relationships among species and groups of species)

Question 3

Gradualism

Answer 3

proposes that species evolve slowly and continuously over long periods through the accumulation of small, incremental changes.
Slow and continuous.

Question 4

Punctuated Equilibrium

Answer 4

species undergo long periods of little to no evolutionary change (stasis) interrupted by short, rapid bursts of significant change.

Question 5

Fossil Record

Answer 5

Paleontology uncovers fossils of extinct species that are preserved in ice, amber, tar, volcanic ash, peat, or sedimentary rock.

Most commonly preserved are the hard parts of organisms (teeth, shells, skeletons).

Question 6

Biogeography

Answer 6

Geography helps explain the distribution of species.

Supercontinent (Pangea) and continental drift has moved plates to form the modern continents.

Question 7

Embryology

Answer 7

Examines patterns of development and reveals similar stages in development (ontology) among established species which helps establish evolutionary relationships (phylogeny)

Question 8

Comparative Anatomy:

Answer 8

Vestigial features
Structures present in modern species that no longer have a function. Suggests evolution from an ancestor which needed the structure for survival.

Morphology is form and structure and two patterns of morphology contribute to establishing evolutionary relationships among species.

Question 9

Molecular Biology (Biochemica)

Answer 9

All living things share the same genetic code, therefore there is evidence for evolution of different species through modification of ancestral genetic codes. (Descent through modification)

Question 10

Physiological Evidence

Answer 10

Physiology is the study of how the body works. Similarities between how organ systems of different organisms work indicate evolutionary relationships. Suggests possible common ancestor.