Foundations of Evolution Flashcards
0change in the genetic composition of a population from one generation to the next
evolution
nucleic acid molecule containing all the inherited DNA
DNA
DNA sequence that encodes a protein or directs cell development
gene
a cellular structure consisting of one DNA molecule
chromosome
the process by which DNA directs the synthesis of proteins
gene expression
nucleic acid molecule containing only DNA that can be translated
RNA
synthesis of RNA from DNA
transcription
synthesis of a protein from RNA
translation
polypeptide macromolecule that make up/maintains tissue
protein
process in which individuals that have certain inherited traits tend to survive and reproduce at higher rates than other because of those traits
natural selection
inherited characteristic of an organisms that enhances its survival or reproduction
adaptation
evolutionary process of one species splitting into two or more
speciation
Who believed species were fixed, perfect, and permanent?
Aristotle
Who believed the similarities among species was due to the pattern of creation by God?
Linnaeus
Who believed that geological change is quick and catastrophic and that species go extinct, but don’t evolve?
Cuvier
Who believed that geological features can be explained by gradual processes, including those operating today?
Hutton & Lyell
Who believed species evolved?
Lamarck, Darwin, & Wallace
What was Darwin’s hypothesis?
Adaptation to the environment and speciation are closely related
What 3 broad observations does natural selection explain?
Unity of life, diversity of life, and the match between organisms and their environment
What were the two points Darwin made in his book, “The Origin of Species?”
Evolution and natural selection
There is _____ among individuals in phenotypic traits.
variation
Much of the variation in organisms is _____.
heritable
When species produce more offspring than the environment can support, _____ is inevitable.
competition
Over time, advantageous traits will increase in frequency in a population and _____ will occur.
evolution
What are some examples of evidence supporting the theory of evolution?
fossil records, homology, biogeography, direct observations
