Theory of Evolution

Definition

The theory of evolution explains how life on Earth has changed over time and how different species are related through common ancestry. It proposes that all living organisms share a common ancestor and have gradually evolved through the mechanism of natural selection.

Related terms

Fossil Record: The fossil record consists of preserved remains or traces (such as bones, shells, imprints) from past geological ages that provide evidence for the existence and characteristics of ancient organisms.

Speciation: Speciation is the process by which new species arise from existing ones due to evolutionary changes accumulating over time.

Genetic Variation: Genetic variation refers to the diversity of genes and traits within a population or species, which is essential for evolution to occur.