evolution

the process of change by which new species develop from preexisting species over time

artificial selection

the human practice of breeding animals or plants that have certain desired traits

natural selection

the process by which individuals that are better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully than less well adapted individuals do

adaptation

a trait that improves an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce; the process of becoming adapted

 fossil

 the trace or remains of an organism that lived long ago; most commonly preserved in sedimentary rock

Homologous

Describes a character that is shared by a group of species because it is inherited from a common ancestor

speciation

the formation of new species as a result of evolution