Section 1
Understanding Evolution
Book
Version 32
By Boundless
By Boundless
Boundless Biology
Biology
by Boundless
6 concepts
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What is Evolution?
Evolution, the unifying theory of biology, describes a mechanism for the change and diversification of species over time.
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Charles Darwin and Natural Selection
Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace independently developed the theories of evolution and its main operating principle: natural selection.
The Galapagos Finches and Natural Selection
The differences in shape and size of beaks in Darwin's finches illustrate ongoing evolutionary change.
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Processes and Patterns of Evolution
Natural selection can only occur in the presence of genetic variation; environmental conditions determine which traits are selected.
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Evidence of Evolution
Evidence for evolution has been obtained through fossil records, embryology, geography, and molecular biology.
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Misconceptions of Evolution
There are many misconceptions about evolution, including the meaning of the word theory, the way populations change, and the origin of life.