Charles Darwin

• What theory did Charles Darwin develop?


  The theory of evolution by natural selection
• Why was Darwin's theory of evolution only gradually accepted?


  It challenged the belief that God created all species and lacked sufficient evidence at the time
• Who suggested that species change over time before Darwin?

  Jean Baptiste Lamarck
• What was Lamarck's theory about characteristics?


  He suggested that characteristics developed through use could be passed on to offspring
• What are the key points of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection?


  • Within a species, there is genetic variation.
  • Individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
  • Favorable traits are passed on to the next generation.
• How does the example of giraffes illustrate Darwin's theory?


  Giraffes with longer necks can reach more nutritious leaves, allowing them to survive and breed
• In what year did Darwin publish his theory?


  1859
• What was a major issue with Lamarck's theory?


  Changes that occur in an organism's lifetime cannot be passed on to offspring
• How does Darwin's theory differ from Lamarck's theory regarding inheritance?


  Darwin's theory states that traits are inherited based on survival, while Lamarck's suggests traits develop through use
• What were the reasons for the initial controversy surrounding Darwin's theory?


  • It challenged the belief in divine creation.
  • Lack of sufficient evidence at the time.
  • Genetics was not understood until 50 years later.
• What did Darwin collect during his expedition around the world?


  A vast number of different animals and plants
• What did Darwin study to develop his theory?


  Geology and fossils
• What evidence did Darwin find that suggested species change over time?


  Fossils showed that many species alive today are similar to extinct species
• How does the concept of genetic variation relate to natural selection?


  Genetic variation allows for different traits that can affect survival and reproduction
• Why was genetics important to the acceptance of Darwin's theory?


  Genetics provided the understanding of how traits are inherited
• What role did experimentation and discussion play in Darwin's development of his theory?


  They helped him refine and support his ideas about evolution