AQA Biology Evolution Revision Notes
Master AQA Biology Evolution using simple revision notes, key facts and practice questions — all generated by AI for your exam.
Evolution is the process by which species change over time through mechanisms such as natural selection and genetic drift. It explains the diversity of life on Earth and how organisms adapt to their environments.
Key Concepts
- 1Natural selection is the mechanism by which advantageous traits become more common in a population.
- 2Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies that can lead to significant evolutionary changes.
- 3Speciation occurs when populations of the same species become isolated and evolve into distinct species.
- 4The fossil record provides evidence for evolution by showing changes in species over time.
- 5Molecular evidence, such as DNA sequencing, supports evolutionary relationships among organisms.
Simple Explanation
Evolution is how living things change and adapt over time. It happens because some traits help organisms survive better, so those traits get passed on to future generations. Over a long time, these changes can lead to new species. Scientists use fossils and DNA to understand how different species are related and how they evolved.
Memory Trick
“Remember 'N-G-S-M' for Natural selection, Genetic drift, Speciation, and Molecular evidence to recall the key concepts of evolution.”
Flashcards
What is natural selection?
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Exam Questions
Describe and explain the process of natural selection. [6 marks]
6 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Define natural selection, explain variation, survival of the fittest, and reproduction.
Explain how genetic drift can lead to evolution. [4 marks]
4 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Define genetic drift, discuss random changes in allele frequencies, and mention small populations.
What is meant by the term 'speciation'? [2 marks]
2 marksView mark scheme hint▾
Define speciation and give an example.
Practice Quiz
What is the main mechanism of evolution according to Darwin?
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