Variation and Evolution

Question 1

Classification

Answer 1

Placing objects into groups based on similar characteristics

Question 2

Taxonomy

Answer 2

the science of classifying organisms

Question 3

species

Answer 3

a group of organisms capable of naturally interbreeding and producing fertile offspring

Question 4

variation

Answer 4

means that within a group of successfully interbreeding organisms the individual members show different characteristics

Question 5

Acquired variations

Answer 5

variations that are not inherited bu that are learned or developed during life

Question 6

inherited variations

Answer 6

variations that are controlled by genes

Question 7

mutation

Answer 7

a sudden or spontaneous change in the amount or structure of DNA

Question 8

mutagens

Answer 8

agents that cause mutations

Question 9

gene / point mutation

Answer 9

a change in a single gene

Question 10

a chromosome mutation

Answer 10

a large change in the structure or number of one or more chromosomes

Question 11

evolution

Answer 11

the way in which living things change genetically to produce new forms of life over long periods of time

Question 12

natural selection

Answer 12

the process by which organisms with genetically controlled characteristics that allow them to be better adapted to their environment will survive and reproduce to pass on their genes to following generations

Question 13

speciaton

Answer 13

the production of a new species as a result of evolution

Question 14

fossil

Answer 14

the remains of something that has lived a long time ago

or some indication of something that has lived a long time ago