#compound-knowledge #fundamental #evolution #biology Created at 111123 # [Anonymous feedback](https://www.admonymous.co/louis030195) # [[Epistemic status]] #shower-thought Last modified date: 111123 Commit: 0 # Related - [[Fundamental laws of physics]] - [[Fundamental laws of computation]] - [[Fundamental laws of biology]] - [[Theory of knowledge]] # Theory of evolution | Concept | Description | Example | | ------- | ----------- | ------- | | **Natural Selection** | Process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. | Peppered Moth color variation due to industrial pollution. | | **Genetic Variation** | Differences in DNA among individuals, providing the raw material for evolution. | Variations in beak size and shape among Darwin's finches. | | **Mutation** | Random changes in the DNA sequence, which can create new genetic variation. | Random mutations in bacteria leading to antibiotic resistance. | | **Genetic Drift** | Random fluctuations in the frequencies of alleles from one generation to the next. | Founder effect leading to high frequency of certain genetic traits in a small population. | | **Gene Flow** | Transfer of genetic variation from one population to another. | Migration of a species introducing new genes to a population. | | **Speciation** | The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution. | Allopatric speciation due to geographic isolation. | | **Adaptive Radiation** | Process where organisms diversify rapidly into a multitude of new forms, particularly when a change in the environment makes new resources available. | Diversification of mammals after the dinosaur extinction. | | **Convergent Evolution** | Evolution of similar features in species of different lineages, often due to similar environmental pressures. | Wings in bats (mammals) and birds (aves). | | **Divergent Evolution** | Accumulation of differences between closely related species populations, leading to new species. | Differences between chimpanzees and humans from a common ancestor. | | **Phylogenetics** | Study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities – often species, individuals or genes. | Tree of Life showing relationships among various species. | | **Evolutionary Fitness** | How well a species is able to survive and reproduce in its environment. | Higher reproductive success of peacocks with larger, more colorful tails. |