define natural selection
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_selection
Step 1: Natural selection is a fundamental process in evolution, proposed by Charles Darwin. It is the mechanism by which certain traits or characteristics become more or less common in a population over time.
Step 2: Natural selection occurs due to variation within a population. Individuals within a population exhibit variations in their traits, such as their physical or behavioral characteristics.
Step 3: The environment acts as a selective pressure on these traits. Some traits may provide certain individuals with advantages in terms of survival and reproduction, while other traits may be disadvantageous.
Step 4: Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those traits to their offspring. This process is referred to as "survival of the fittest."
Step 5: Over successive generations, the traits that confer advantages tend to become more common in a population, while traits that are disadvantageous tend to become less common.
Step 6: Natural selection is driven by the interaction between genetic variation, heritability of traits, and selective pressures from the environment.
Step 7: Through natural selection, species can gradually adapt to changes in their environment, leading to the evolution of new species over long periods of time.
Step 8: It is important to note that natural selection acts on individuals, but its effects are seen at the population level, leading to changes in the genetic composition of a population over time.
Natural selection is a key concept in the field of biology, specifically in the theory of evolution. It is the process by which certain heritable traits become more or less common in a population over time as a result of differential reproductive success. In other words, natural selection is the mechanism through which evolution occurs. Individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those traits to their offspring, while individuals with less beneficial traits are less likely to survive and reproduce.
If you're looking to understand the concept of natural selection further, here's what you can do:
1. Read scientific literature: Explore books, articles, or research papers by reputable scientists and evolutionary biologists like Charles Darwin, Richard Dawkins, or Stephen Jay Gould, who have contributed significantly to the understanding of natural selection.
2. Online resources: Visit reliable websites that explain the concept of natural selection using simple language and examples. Websites from educational institutions, science museums, or reputable biology journals are good sources to start with.
3. Educational videos: Watch educational videos or documentaries that delve into the topic of natural selection. Visual aids can often help in grasping complex concepts, and platforms like YouTube or educational websites may have informative videos available.
4. Take an online course: Consider enrolling in an online course or lecture series that covers evolution and natural selection. Many platforms offer free or paid courses taught by experts in the field, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
Remember that understanding natural selection requires some familiarity with basic concepts in biology, such as genetics, inheritance, and adaptation. So, if you need to, brush up on those topics to fully grasp the concept of natural selection.