Evolution Quiz

Evolution is the cornerstone of modern biology. The idea that all living things share common ancestors and change over time through natural selection was revolutionary when Charles Darwin published 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859. Today, the evidence for evolution from fossils, genetics, and direct observation is overwhelming.

Understanding Natural Selection and Evolution

Natural selection occurs when individuals with traits better suited to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully than others. Over many generations, these favorable traits become more common in a population. This process, combined with genetic mutation, sexual selection, and genetic drift, drives the diversity of life we see today.

Evolution does not have a direction or goal - It simply describes the change in heritable traits across generations. Understanding evolution helps explain everything from antibiotic resistance to the diversity of species in the Galápagos Islands. Brush up on related topics with our ecology quiz, AP Biology quiz, and basic chemistry quiz.