Evolution and natural selection

Question 1

What is the theory of evolution?

Answer 1

Life began as simple organisms from which more complex organisms evolved

Question 2

How long does the process of evolution take place?

Answer 2

Millions of years

Question 3

What does natural selection mean?

Answer 3

‘Survival of the fittest’

Question 4

What did Charles Darwin conclude about natural selection?

Answer 4

Organisms with the most suitable characteristics for the environment would be more successful competitors and so would have a higher chance of survival.

Question 5

How does evolution work?

Answer 5

1) Genetic variations lead to organisms being born who have altered characteristics to their ancestors.
2) If this new characteristic helps them survive, they will live and breed to create offspring with similar characteristics.
3) This means a greater proportion of the next generations individuals will have it.
4) The process repeats itself over time, and the number of organisms with the characteristic grows quickly.