BIOLOGICAL EVOLUTION Meaning and
Definition
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Biological evolution, also known as organic evolution or Darwinian evolution, refers to the process by which living organisms have changed over time. It is a fundamental scientific concept that explains how species have emerged, diversified, and become extinct throughout Earth's history. This gradual process occurs through the interaction of genetic variation, natural selection, and environmental factors.
At its core, biological evolution is driven by genetic mutations, which are random changes in the DNA sequence of an organism's genes. These mutations can introduce new genetic variations into a population. Over time, some of these variations may confer an advantage or disadvantage to an individual's survival and reproductive success, thus influencing the traits, behaviors, and physical characteristics that are passed on to future generations.
Natural selection acts as the primary mechanism driving biological evolution. It is an inherent result of the struggle for existence and limited resources. Individuals with beneficial traits that increase their fitness and ability to survive are more likely to produce offspring with similar advantageous traits, leading to the propagation of those traits throughout a population.
The process of biological evolution is also influenced by environmental factors such as changes in climate, habitat availability, and the presence of predators or competitors. These factors can create selective pressures that favor different adaptations or drive certain species to extinction.
Biological evolution is an ongoing process that can occur over millions of years as small changes accumulate and eventually result in the formation of new species. It embodies the concept of common ancestry, suggesting that all living organisms are connected through a shared evolutionary history. The study of biological evolution forms the foundation of modern biology, enabling scientists to understand the diversity of life and explore the intricate relationships between species.
Common Misspellings for BIOLOGICAL EVOLUTION
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Etymology of BIOLOGICAL EVOLUTION
The word "biological" is derived from the Greek word "bios", which means "life", and the suffix "-logia", which means "the study of". Therefore, "biological" refers to the study of life and living organisms.
The word "evolution" is derived from the Latin word "evolutio", which means "unrolling" or "to unfold". It was first used in a biological context to describe the concept of the gradual development or change of species over generations. This concept was popularized by Charles Darwin's theory of evolution through natural selection. The term "biological evolution" refers specifically to the process of change and development that occurs in living organisms over time.
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