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Unit V Vocabulary, Adaptations over Time
Includes terms related to the theory of evolution
16
Science
7th Grade
02/01/2010

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Term
Species
Definition
group of organisms that share similar characteristics and can reproduce among themselves, producing fertile offspring
Term
Evolution
Definition
change in inherited characteristics over time
Term
Natural selection
Definition
a process by which organisms with traits best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce; includes concepts of variation, overproduction, and competition
Term
Variation
Definition
inherited trait that makes an individual different from other members of the same species and results from a mutation in the organism's genes
Term
Adaptation
Definition
any variation that makes an organism better suited to its environment
Term
Gradualism
Definition
model describing evolution as a slow process by which one species changes into a new species through a continuing series of mutations and variations over time
Term
Punctuated equilibrium
Definition
model describing the rapid evolution that occurs when mutation of a few genes results in a species suddenly changing into a new species
Term
Sedimentary rock
Definition
a type of rock, such as limestone, that is most likely to contain fossils and is formed when layers of sand, silt, clay, or mud are cemented and compacted together or when minerals are deposited from a solution
Term
Radioactive element
Definition
element that gives off a steady amount of radiation as it slowly changes to a nonradioactive element
Term
Embryology
Definition
study of embryos and their development
Term
Homologous
Definition
body parts that are similar in structure and origin and can be similar in function
Term
Vestigial structure
Definition
structure, such as the human appendix, that doesn't seem to have a function and may once have functioned in the body of an ancestor
Term
Primate
Definition
group of mammals, including humans, monkeys, and apes, that share characteristics such as opposable thumbs, binocular vision, and flexible shoulders
Term
Hominid
Definition
humanlike primate that appeared about 4 million to 6 million years ago, ate both plants and meat, and walked upright on two legs
Term
Homo sapiens
Definition
early humans that likely evolved from Cro-Magnons
Term
Opposable
Definition
can be placed against another digit of a hand or foot
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