CLEP Biology

CLEP Biology covers fundamental concepts in biology, including cellular processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology, designed to help students earn college credit.

Advanced Topics

Evolution and Natural Selection

The Story of Life's Changes

Evolution explains how species change over time. Natural selection is the process where organisms with traits better suited to their environment survive and reproduce.

Key Concepts

  • Variation: Individuals within a species vary.
  • Adaptation: Traits that improve survival become more common.
  • Speciation: Over time, new species can arise.

Evidence of Evolution

Fossils, DNA similarities, and observable changes (like bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics) all support evolutionary theory.

Impact on Our World

Evolution helps us understand biodiversity, treat diseases, and conserve species.

Examples

  • Darwin’s finches have different beaks adapted to their specific diets.

  • Pesticide resistance in insects is a modern example of evolution.

In a Nutshell

Evolution by natural selection drives the diversity and adaptation of life.