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Natural Selection

Definition

Natural selection is the process by which certain traits or characteristics become more or less common in a population over time due to their impact on survival and reproduction.

Analogy

Imagine a game show where contestants compete for a prize. In natural selection, the "prize" is survival and passing on genes to future generations. Just like how only the fittest contestants may win the game show, only individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce in nature.

Related terms

Adaptation: The process by which organisms develop traits that allow them to better survive in their environment.

Evolution: The gradual change in inherited characteristics of populations over successive generations.

Selective Pressure: Environmental factors that influence natural selection by favoring certain traits over others.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.