Darwin and Natural Selection

• 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
• How does Darwin's theory differ from Lamarck's theory?

  Darwin's theory involves natural selection, Lamarck's does not
• What are the key points of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection?

  • Variation exists within species
  • Survival of the fittest: suited traits survive
  • Successful traits are passed to offspring
• What book did Darwin publish in 1859?

  On the Origin of Species
• What was a major reason people rejected Darwin's theory initially?

  Many believed God created all species
• What scientific concept was not understood at the time of Darwin's theory?

  How characteristics are inherited
• What is a major flaw in Lamarck's theory?

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

  Necks grow longer from stretching to reach food
• What is the main conclusion about Darwin's theory today?

  It explains how species change over time
• What evidence did Darwin use to support his theory?

  • Observations of diverse species
  • Fossil records showing similarities
  • Studies in geology