Darwin

• What theory did Charles Darwin develop?

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

  It challenged existing beliefs and lacked evidence
• Who suggested that species change over time before Darwin?

  Jean Baptiste Lamarck
• What did Lamarck propose about characteristics?

  They become more developed with use and are inherited
• What are the key points of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection?

  • Variation exists within species
  • Individuals with advantageous traits survive and reproduce
  • Beneficial traits are passed to the next generation
• In what year did Darwin publish his theory?

  1859
• What was a major belief that Darwin's theory challenged?

  That God created all living organisms
• What was one reason scientists doubted Darwin's theory?

  They felt he lacked sufficient evidence
• What scientific field was not understood until 50 years after Darwin's theory?

  Genetics
• What is a major flaw in Lamarck's theory?

  Changes in a lifetime cannot be inherited
• How would Lamarck explain the long neck of giraffes?

  Giraffes stretch their necks to reach food
• How does Darwin's theory differ from Lamarck's theory?

  Darwin's theory involves natural selection, Lamarck's does not
• What are the main reasons for the gradual acceptance of Darwin's theory?

  • Challenge to religious beliefs
  • Insufficient evidence at the time
  • Lack of understanding of genetics