| A | B |
|---|
| Species | group of organisms that share similar characteristics produce fertile offspring |
| evolution | Change in inherited characteristics over time |
| Natural Selection | organisms with traits best suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce |
| variation | inherited trait that makes an individual different from other members of its species |
| adaptation | variation that makes an organism better suited to its environment |
| gradualism | slow change into new species by mutations over time |
| punctuated equilibrium | rapid evolution when mutation of a few genes results in a new species |
| Sedimentary rock | formed when layers of sand,silt,clay or mud are compacted together |
| radioactive element | element that gives off a steady amount of radiation and changes to nonradioactive |
| embryology | study of embryos and their development |
| homologous | body parts that are similar in structure and origin and can be similar in function |
| vestigial | structures that dont seem to have a function |
| primates | group of mammals w/ opposable thumbs, binocular vision, flexible shoulders |
| hominids | humanlike primate, ate plants and meated walked upright on two legs |
| Homo sapiens | early humans that likely evolved from Cro-Magnons |
