Define each of the following terms:
Natural selection

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1. Natural selection is a fundamental concept in evolutionary biology, first proposed by Charles Darwin, which explains how traits that provide a survival or reproductive advantage become more common in a population over generations.
2. It operates on the principle of variation, where individuals in a population exhibit differences in traits, such as size, color, or behavior.
3. These variations are often heritable, meaning they can be passed from one generation to the next through genetic inheritance.
4. Individuals with traits that enhance their ability to survive and reproduce in a given environment are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation, a process known as differential reproductive success.
5. Over time, this leads to the adaptation of populations to their environments, as advantageous traits become more prevalent while less advantageous traits diminish.

Key Concepts

Natural Selection

Natural selection is a fundamental mechanism of evolution, proposed by Charles Darwin. It describes the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits to the next generation. Over time, this leads to the adaptation of species to their environments, as beneficial traits become more common within a population.

Variation

Variation refers to the differences in traits among individuals within a population. These differences can be due to genetic mutations, environmental factors, or a combination of both. Variation is crucial for natural selection, as it provides the raw material upon which selective pressures act, allowing certain traits to be favored over others.

Survival of the Fittest

The phrase 'survival of the fittest' encapsulates the idea that individuals best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. 'Fittest' does not necessarily mean the strongest; it refers to the best-suited individuals for a specific environment. This concept emphasizes the role of adaptation in the evolutionary process, highlighting how certain traits enhance an organism's chances of survival.