6.2.3

Natural Selection

Test yourself

Natural Selection

Natural selection was proposed by Charles Darwin in 1859. He theorised that all species evolved from simple life forms that first appeared on Earth more than three billion years ago. Natural selection happens like this:

Illustrative background for Genetic variationIllustrative background for Genetic variation ?? "content

Genetic variation

  • Within a biological population, different individuals have genetic variation (differences in characteristics).
Illustrative background for Survival of the fittestIllustrative background for Survival of the fittest ?? "content

Survival of the fittest

  • Individuals possessing genes that make them better adapted to the environment will have a greater chance of survival.
Illustrative background for BreedingIllustrative background for Breeding ?? "content

Breeding

  • Individuals with the best chances of survival are the most likely to breed successfully (because they survive).
Illustrative background for Best characteristics surviveIllustrative background for Best characteristics survive ?? "content

Best characteristics survive

  • The characteristics responsible for the increase in the likelihood of survival are more likely to be passed on to the next generation.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson