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Evolution Vocab
Earth science part 2
Term | Definition |
---|---|
branching tree | a tree that shows the evolutionary relationships thought to exist among groups of organisms |
morphology | study of form and structure of an organism |
homologous structures | similar structures that are inherited from a common ancestor |
convergent evolution | process by which unrelated organisms independently evolve similarities when adapting to similar environments |
natural selection | the process by which individuals that are better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce |
theory | an idea that has evidence and has been tested many times |
analogy | similar structures that evolved independently, not through common ancestory |
ancestor | a person from whom one has descended |
evolution | the gradual change of a species over time |
adaptation | a trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce |
trait | a characteristic that an organism can pass onto its offspring |
species | a group of organisms that can mate and produce fertile offspring |