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The Evolution Site
The theory of evolution by natural selection is the unifying force of modern biology. It connects disciplines as diverse as genetics, microbiology and the study of palaeontology.
The study of evolution may be controversial, and the misinformation that comes from it can cause confusion about its fundamentals. This site clarifies the most fundamental concepts.
What is Evolution?
Modern evolutionary theory is based on the gradual and cumulative changes that take place in populations over time. These changes are the result of natural selection. This is a process which increases the number of organisms with beneficial traits, which help them to survive and reproduce in specific environments. This means that these organisms leave more offspring than those who don't have these beneficial characteristics. This could result in a genetic mutation which could eventually lead to the creation of new species.
The term "evolution" is usually associated with "survival-of-the best" which means that those who are better adapted to certain environmental conditions will have an advantage over those who are less well adapted. This is just one of many ways that evolution can occur.
Another popular way in which the term "evolution" is used is to suggest that a species will invariably move from one state of being to the next one. This type of view of evolution is referred to as anagenetic or cladogenesis. The scientific definition of evolution does not support this view. Instead the theory of evolution that is scientifically based is based on the changes that happen within populations over time and these changes are the result of genetic mutations and natural selection.
Charles Darwin was one of the scientists who supported this idea. Alfred Russel Wallace who developed the macroevolution theory believed this was the only way that higher forms of living could have evolved.
In order for a concept to be called a theory, it must be capable of standing up to rigorous testing and evidence. Evolution has stood the test of time, and has been supported in countless scientific disciplines from geology to biology, chemistry to astronomy. In fact, evolution is accepted as one of the cornerstones of science today, and is supported by the majority of scientists around the world. Many people have misconceptions regarding the nature of the theory of evolution particularly how it is connected to religion.
What is the Theory of Evolution (Evolutionary Theory)?
Evolution is a scientific explanation of the way living things change over time. It is based on a variety of well-established observations that show that more offspring are produced than could possibly survive in the long run; that individuals differ from each other in their physical characteristics (phenotype) and that distinct characteristics result in different rates of reproduction and survival; and that traits can be passed on to the next generation. These observations are backed up by a growing amount of evidence drawn from molecular biology, palaeontology and climatology functional geology and morphology.
The theory of evolution by natural selection was developed independently by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace in the mid-19th century to provide an explanation for why organisms are adapted to their physical and biological environments. 에볼루션 is the most widely supported and tested theory in the field of science. Its predictions have been borne out by the fact that, for example, more complex organisms are more likely to have less genetic mutations than simpler ones. The more successful an organism is in terms of survival and reproducing the more likely it is to transmit its genes to the next generation.
Some people are against evolution because they believe it suggests that there is no purpose for life. Many scientists who are religious like Cambridge Palaeontologist Simon Conway Morris (BioLogos, 2014) believe that evolution is compatible with faith in God and can even be enhanced by it.
In fact, a large number of highly skilled evolutionary biologists, including a few who are renowned evangelical Christian leaders have been involved in the creation and testing of the theory of evolution. Many of these scientists contributed to the understanding a wide range phenomena, including phylogenetics and genomics, as well as the formation and function fossils.
The term "theory" is sometimes used incorrectly to mean a guess or speculation however it actually refers to a scientific idea that has been thoroughly evaluated and refined over time. Scientists test hypotheses through repeating the experiments or observations that led them to the conclusion. Thus, the theory of evolution has been repeatedly tested out as have the corresponding theories of Copernican, germ theory, and atomic theory.
What is the Process of Evolution?
The process of evolution is the gradual change over time in the ratio of genetically distinct individuals within a specific species. This change is the result of natural selection of individuals that are more adapted to their environment. The better-adapted individuals have a better chance of survival and reproduction. As more of these individuals survive and reproduce their genes become more common in the population. This is sometimes referred to as "survival of the most fittest."
According to the theory of evolution the mutations that cause genetic variation are the basic material of evolutionary change. These mutations could occur at random or under the influence of the environment. When mutations are random, the resulting allele frequencies may vary from generation to generation. In contrast, when an alteration is beneficial it increases the frequency of the allele, causing it to spread throughout the population.
As time passes, these changes in the frequencies of alleles can result in the creation of new species. The new species may grow and evolve into newer forms. This process is known as macroevolution. The development of new species is typically a result of changes in the environment, which makes certain resources available or creates new environmental challenges. For instance, the development of finches on the Galapagos Islands is a result of the abundance of foods and the need to defend themselves from predators.
In a broader context it is possible to define evolution as any change in the nature of living organisms over time. This change can be subtle, such as the development of a new color or dramatic, like the formation of an organ.
Scientists who accept the theory of evolution generally agree on the significance of genetic change in generating evolution. They also agree that evolution is a process that occurs over time, usually over millions of years. However, they differ on the role of various factors in accelerating or retarding the process, including the impact of environmental pressures, sexual selection and mutation bias. Despite these differences, the majority of scientists believe that evolution is happening and the evidence to prove this is overwhelming.
What is the Evidence of Evolution?
Since Darwin's time scientists have collected evidence to back his theory of evolution. A portion of this evidence is derived from fossils which reveal the changing traits of living things over time. Another evidence comes from similarities among living organisms embryology, biogeography genetics and comparative anatomy.
The evolutionary tree is the most effective method to prove the existence of evolution. It demonstrates how species are closely related. Homologous structures are another evidence. They have a similar structure, but they perform different functions in different species, like the wing of a bat or bird. The fact that different species develop and adapt to a similar environment is also a sign of evolution. For example, arctic foxes and ptarmigans develop seasonal white pelts that blend in with snow and ice. This is a form of convergent evolution that suggests that the species has common ancestors.
Another evidence point is the existence of vestigial structures. These are unutilized parts of an organism that may have served a purpose in the distant ancestors. The human appendix for instance, is a vestige from an organ that was used to digest food. These structures tend to shrink in size when they're no longer in use in a process called natural selection.
Scientists have also gathered evidence for evolution through observation and experimenting. Evidence for evolution is grouped into six categories: directly observable small-scale changes, biogeographic distribution as well as comparative anatomy, fossil record, classification and genetics. Each of these provides convincing evidence that evolution of life took place.
Although many people have misconceptions about the theory of evolution It is an established fact. It is not a theory but a significant collection founded on decades of observation. Whatever people believe or disbelieve about the theory of evolution scientists continue to study and collect new data in order to further know the story of life on Earth. This information will help scientists better understand how to prevent future global catastrophes and how to make the most of our planet's resources. It will also allow us to better serve the needs of the people living on the planet.