Evolutionary Thought Flashcards
What is the theory of evolution?
The theory of evolution is the scientific explanation for the diversity of life on Earth, proposing that species change over time through processes like natural selection and genetic drift.
Who is known as the father of evolution?
Charles Darwin is known as the father of evolution.
True or False: Natural selection is the only mechanism of evolution.
False.
What is natural selection?
Natural selection is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.
Fill in the blank: The concept of survival of the fittest was popularized by _____ .
Herbert Spencer.
What is genetic drift?
Genetic drift is a mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in the frequency of alleles in a population.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of evolution? A) Natural Selection B) Genetic Drift C) Mutation D) Photosynthesis
D) Photosynthesis.
What are adaptations?
Adaptations are traits that enhance an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.
True or False: All mutations are harmful to an organism.
False.
What is speciation?
Speciation is the process by which new species arise from existing species.
Fill in the blank: The study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities is called _____ .
Phylogenetics.
What is the role of fossils in evolutionary thought?
Fossils provide evidence of past life forms and help scientists understand the evolutionary history of species.
Multiple Choice: Who published ‘On the Origin of Species’? A) Gregor Mendel B) Alfred Wallace C) Charles Darwin D) Louis Pasteur
C) Charles Darwin.
What is the modern synthesis in evolutionary biology?
The modern synthesis is a comprehensive theory that combines Darwin’s theory of natural selection with Mendelian genetics.
True or False: Evolution is a linear process.
False.
What is a common misconception about evolution?
A common misconception is that evolution is a process that leads to ‘better’ organisms; in reality, it leads to organisms that are better suited to their environment.
Fill in the blank: The process by which two species evolve in response to each other is known as _____ .
Co-evolution.
What is convergent evolution?
Convergent evolution is the process where unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a vestigial structure? A) Human appendix B) Bird wings C) Fish gills D) Elephant tusks
A) Human appendix.
What is the significance of the peppered moth in evolutionary studies?
The peppered moth is an example of natural selection in action, demonstrating how environmental changes can affect species coloration.
True or False: Evolution can occur in a single generation.
True.
What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?
Microevolution refers to small evolutionary changes within a species, while macroevolution refers to larger evolutionary changes that can lead to the emergence of new species.
Fill in the blank: The evolutionary theory that emphasizes the role of genetic variation is called _____ .
Population genetics.
What is the significance of the Galápagos Islands in Darwin’s research?
The Galápagos Islands provided Darwin with diverse species that showcased variations and adaptations, leading to his formulation of natural selection.
