What is Evolution?

Evolution is the process of change in all forms of life over generations. It is the central organizing principle of biology and helps explain the diversity of life on Earth.

Evidence for Evolution

• Fossil Record: The fossil record provides evidence of how organisms have changed over time.
• Anatomical Homologies: Similarities in the structures of different organisms suggest common ancestry.
• Embryological Homologies: Similarities in the embryonic development of different organisms provide evidence for evolution.
• Molecular Homologies: Similarities in DNA and protein sequences between different species indicate common ancestry.

How Evolution Works

Evolution occurs through the process of natural selection, in which organisms with traits that are better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Key Concepts

• Genetic Variation: Differences in the genetic makeup of individuals within a population.
• Natural Selection: The process by which organisms with advantageous traits survive and reproduce at higher rates.
• Adaptation: The accumulation of advantageous traits in a population over time.
• Speciation: The formation of new species through the accumulation of genetic changes over time.

The Role of Environmental Factors

Environmental factors, such as climate change, availability of resources, and predation, play a crucial role in driving the process of evolution. They can influence which traits are favored in a given population.

Human Evolution

Humans have evolved over millions of years, with various hominid species preceding modern humans. The study of human evolution provides insights into our ancestry and the development of unique human traits.