MID EXAM Flashcards
What is the main idea of Darwin’s theory of descent with modification?
The idea that species change over time and share a common ancestor.
True or False: Natural selection is the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
True
Fill in the blank: Descent with modification explains how __________ can lead to the evolution of new species.
natural selection
What does ‘survival of the fittest’ refer to?
It refers to the idea that individuals best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of evolution?
A) Genetic drift B) Natural selection C) Climate change D) Mutation
What is meant by ‘fitness’ in an evolutionary context?
Fitness refers to an individual’s ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.
True or False: Evolution always results in more complex organisms.
False
What is a common ancestor?
A species from which two or more different species have evolved.
Fill in the blank: The process by which species become better suited to their environment is called __________.
adaptation
Multiple Choice: Which scientist is best known for the theory of evolution by natural selection?
A) Charles Darwin B) Gregor Mendel C) Louis Pasteur D) Alfred Wallace
What role do mutations play in evolution?
Mutations introduce genetic variation, which can lead to new traits in a population.
True or False: All mutations are harmful to an organism.
False
What is speciation?
The process by which one species splits into two or more distinct species.
Fill in the blank: The study of the geographical distribution of species is known as __________.
biogeography
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of artificial selection?
A) Breeding dogs for specific traits B) Natural selection in wild plants C) Genetic drift in small populations D) None of the above
What is the significance of the fossil record in understanding evolution?
It provides evidence of past life forms and shows how species have changed over time.
True or False: Homologous structures indicate common ancestry.
True
What are vestigial structures?
Structures that have lost their original function through evolution.
Fill in the blank: The theory that explains how new traits arise and are passed on through generations is called __________.
heredity
Multiple Choice: Which of the following provides evidence for evolution?
A) Comparative anatomy B) Molecular biology C) Fossil records D) All of the above
What is the difference between microevolution and macroevolution?
Microevolution refers to small changes within a species, while macroevolution involves larger changes that can lead to the formation of new species.
True or False: Evolution is a linear process.
False
What does genetic drift refer to?
Random changes in allele frequencies in a population, often having a larger effect in small populations.
Fill in the blank: The concept of __________ explains how environmental pressures can lead to the evolution of certain traits over time.
natural selection
