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Evolution 743
Geologic Time
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| adaptation | an inherited trait that helps it to survive and reproduce |
| evolution | The gradual change of species over time |
| homologous structure | Similar structures in different species because they have a common ancestor |
| trait | Characteristic in an organism, passed on to offspring because of its genes |
| theory | well tested concept that explains a wide range of observations |
| analogous structures | Similar structures in organisms that do NOT have a common ancestor |
| natural selection | Individuals best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce than others of the same species |
| branching tree | a diagram that shows how scientists think different organisms are related |
| convergent evolution | process when unrelated organisms independently evolve to adapt |
| species | group of similar organisms that can mate with each other and produce fertile offspring |