Question 1

What is natural selection and how does it relate to the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science curriculum?

Accepted Answer

Natural selection is a fundamental concept in biology that explains how species evolve over time. It is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. In the Edexcel GCSE Combined Science curriculum, students learn about natural selection as part of the broader topic of evolution, understanding how advantageous traits become more common in a population over generations.

Question 2

How does genetic variation contribute to natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Genetic variation is crucial for natural selection because it provides the raw material for evolution. It refers to the differences in DNA among individuals within a population. These variations can lead to differences in traits, some of which may offer a survival advantage. Natural selection acts on these variations, favoring individuals with traits that enhance survival and reproduction, thereby increasing the frequency of those traits in the population.

Question 3

Can you explain the difference between natural selection and artificial selection?

Accepted Answer

Natural selection is the process by which traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population over time, driven by environmental pressures. In contrast, artificial selection, also known as selective breeding, is a human-driven process where individuals with desirable traits are selectively bred to produce offspring with those traits. Both processes result in changes in the traits of a population, but the driving forces behind them differ.

Question 4

What role does genetic modification play in the context of selection?

Accepted Answer

Genetic modification involves directly altering the DNA of an organism to achieve desired traits. In the context of selection, genetic modification can be seen as a form of artificial selection where specific genes are manipulated to produce organisms with particular characteristics. This technology allows for precise changes that can enhance traits such as disease resistance or yield in crops, complementing traditional selection methods.

Question 5

Why is understanding natural selection important for students studying Edexcel GCSE Combined Science?

Accepted Answer

Understanding natural selection is important for students because it provides a foundational framework for comprehending biological diversity and the mechanisms of evolution. It helps students grasp how species adapt to their environments over time and the impact of environmental changes on populations. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions about biodiversity conservation and understanding the implications of human activities on ecosystems.

Selection

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