variation

• What is the term used to describe the differences among individuals of the same species?

  Variation
• Why do organisms of the same species look different?

  Because of variation within the species
• What are the two types of variation within a species?

  Genetic variation and environmental variation
• How does genetic variation occur among organisms?

  It occurs due to the combination of genes from two parents
• What determines an organism's characteristics?

  The genes inherited from their parents
• What are gametes?

  Sex cells from which offspring develop
• What is an example of a characteristic determined only by genes?

  Violet flower color
• What are some characteristics in animals that are determined by genes?

  Eye color, blood group, and inherited disorders
• What is environmental variation?

  Differences caused by the conditions organisms live and grow in
• How would a plant's growth differ in sunlight compared to darkness?

  A plant in sunlight would be luscious and green, while in darkness it would be tall, spindly, and have yellow leaves
• What are some examples of environmental variations?

  Losing toes in a piranha attack, getting a suntan, and having yellow leaves
• How do most characteristics arise in organisms?

  They are determined by a mixture of genetic and environmental factors
• What determines the maximum height a plant can grow?

  Its genes
• What are mutations?

  Changes to the sequence of bases in DNA
• What can mutations lead to?

  Changes in the protein that a gene codes for
• What happens if a mutation results in a new phenotype that is better suited to a changed environment?

  It can become common throughout the species relatively quickly by natural selection
• How does the environment influence an organism's characteristics?

  The environment interacts with genetic factors to shape characteristics
• What are the main points about genetic variation?

  • Genetic variation is caused by the combination of genes from two parents.
  • No two individuals (other than identical twins) are genetically identical.
  • Some characteristics are determined only by genes, such as eye color and inherited disorders.
• What are the main points about environmental variation?


  • Environmental variation is caused by the conditions organisms live and grow in.
  • Examples include differences in plant growth due to sunlight or darkness.
  • It can also include physical changes due to accidents or environmental factors.
• What are the main points about the interaction of genes and the environment?

  • Most characteristics are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.
  • The maximum potential of a characteristic is determined by genes, but actual expression depends on the environment.
  • Mutations can introduce new phenotypes that may be favored by natural selection.