1. change in the heritable traits within a population across generations
Evolution
change in the heritable traits within a population across generations

2. Vestigial Organs/Structures
Organ/structure that serves no useful function (job) in an organism

3. Common Descent
The idea that all living things were derived (came from) common ancestors

4. Artificial Selection
When HUMANS select which organisms breed for useful traits from the natural variation among different organisms

5. Natural Selection
Process where individuals that are better suited (fitness) to their environment survive & reproduce most successfully

6. Survival of the Fittest
Process where individuals that are better suited (fitness) to their environment survive & reproduce most successfully

7. Homologous Structures
Structures that have different mature forms but develop from the same embryonic tissues

8. Any inherited trait that INCREASES an organism’s chance of survival
Adaptation
Any inherited trait that INCREASES an organism’s chance of survival

9. Fitness
Ability of an organism to survive and reproduce in its specific environment