AP Biology

Advanced Placement Biology course covering cellular processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology.

Cellular Structure and FunctionCellular Processes and EnergyGenetics and Heredity
Gene Expression and RegulationEvolution and Natural SelectionEcological Interactions and Ecosystems
Biotechnology in Medicine and AgricultureConservation Biology and Environmental StewardshipGenetic Testing and Personalized Medicine
Mastering Free-Response QuestionsEffective Use of Diagrams and Models
Cellular Structure a...Cellular Processes a...Genetics and Heredit...Gene Expression and ...Evolution and Natura...Ecological Interacti...Biotechnology in Med...Conservation Biology...Genetic Testing and ...Mastering Free-Respo...Effective Use of Dia...
Advanced Topics

Evolution and Natural Selection

How Species Change Over Time

Evolution explains the diversity of life on Earth. Natural selection, a concept introduced by Charles Darwin, is the process where organisms better suited to their environment survive and reproduce.

Key Concepts

  • Variation: Individuals in a population are different.
  • Selection: Those with advantageous traits are more likely to survive.
  • Adaptation: Over time, beneficial traits become more common.

Evidence for Evolution

  • Fossil records
  • Comparative anatomy
  • DNA similarities

Why It Matters

Understanding evolution helps us combat antibiotic resistance, conserve endangered species, and improve agriculture.

Examples

  • Peppered moths changed color due to industrial pollution.

  • Bacteria evolve resistance to antibiotics through rapid reproduction.

In a Nutshell

Evolution by natural selection explains how species adapt and change across generations.

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Ecological Interactions and Ecosystems