Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Evolution is the process by which species change over time through variations in their genetic material. These changes may lead to new species and greater biodiversity.
This is nature's way of choosing who gets to pass on their genes based on who is best adapted to survive in their environment. It's like if only students who get A+ grades were allowed to graduate - over time, we'd end up with a school full of high-achievers!
Mutations are random changes in DNA that can result in different traits. They're like unexpected plot twists in your favorite TV show - sometimes they make things more interesting, other times not so much.
Speciation is when one species splits into two or more separate species due to differences in gene flow. It’s like if fans of that TV show got into such big arguments about those plot twists that they split into separate fan clubs!