Evolution Flashcards
what is evolution
a gradual change over time in organic life from one form to another
What is natural selection
are the characteristics that increase the likelihood of survival and reproduction will be more preserved in the population , therefore becoming more common in the species over time .
Explain mutations
random events and accidents in gene reproduction during cell devision
What are adaptions ?
physical or behavioural changes that allow organisms to meet recurring environmental challenges to their survival, thereby increasing their reproductive ability
Explain alleles
Alleles : alternative form of a gene that produce different characteristics
– If the allele received from one parent is dominant , the characteristic that it controls will be displayed
– If an allele received from one parent is recessive , the characteristic will only be displayed if the other parent also contributes a recessive allele
What is genotype
The specific and complete genetic make-up of an individual
What is phenotype
the individuals overt observable characteristics
what identical twin have ?
Identical twins share exactly the same genotype , but interaction with the environment will mean that their phenotypes differ
What are chromosomes
single or double-stranded and tightly coiled molecules of DNA and proteins
* Nearly every cell in the human body has 46 chromosomes
* The one exception is sex cells with 23
What is behaviourism
are laws of learning that apply to virtually all organisms
- Organism is initially a tabula rasa/ “blank slate” on which experiences are written
What is ethology ?
focused on the evolutionary differences between species
- Inherited behavioural adaptations: traits organisms are born with that help promote changes of survival/reproductive success
