Study Notes
Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. It is a key mechanism of evolution, leading to the development of new species over time.
- Natural Selection — the process where organisms better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully. Example: Giraffes with longer necks survive better in environments where food is higher up.
- Adaptation — the process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment through natural selection. Example: Polar bears developing thicker fur in cold climates.
- Antibiotic Resistance — when bacteria evolve to survive exposure to antibiotics. Example: MRSA bacteria becoming resistant to most antibiotics.
- Artificial Selection — the process by which humans breed plants and animals for particular genetic traits. Example: Breeding chickens to produce more meat.
- Selective Breeding — a form of artificial selection where humans breed plants and animals for specific traits over many generations. Example: Breeding dogs for specific behaviors or appearances.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Natural Selection: The process where organisms better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully.
- Adaptation: The process by which a species becomes better suited to its environment.
- Antibiotic Resistance: When bacteria evolve to survive exposure to antibiotics.
- Artificial Selection: The process by which humans breed plants and animals for particular genetic traits.
Common Confusions
- Confusing natural selection with artificial selection.
- Misunderstanding that adaptation happens in individuals rather than populations over generations.
Typical Exam Questions
- What is natural selection? Natural selection is the process where organisms better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully.
- How does antibiotic resistance develop in bacteria? Antibiotic resistance develops when bacteria with mutations survive antibiotic treatment and reproduce.
- What is the difference between natural and artificial selection? Natural selection is driven by environmental pressures, while artificial selection is driven by human choice.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of how natural selection leads to evolution.
- Differences between natural and artificial selection.
- Examples of adaptation and antibiotic resistance.