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The Evolution Site The theory of natural selection as the basis of evolution is the central force in the field of modern biology. It combines disciplines like microbiology, palaeontology, genetics and palaeontology. However the study of evolutionary theory is often controversial and the resultant misinformation can confuse people regarding the fundamentals of evolution. This Web site helps explain the most important concepts. What is Evolution? Modern evolutionary theory is based on the gradual and cumulative changes that take place in populations over time. These changes are the result of natural selection, a process that increases the number of organisms that possess beneficial traits that enable them to live and reproduce in a particular environment. The organisms that have these traits produce more offspring as a result of the positive traits. This could result in a genetic mutation that may eventually lead to the creation of new species. The term “evolution” is often associated with the notion of “survival of the strongest,” which means that people who are most well-adapted to a particular set of environmental conditions will be more successful than those who aren't adapted to the environment. This is just one of many ways that evolution could occur. Another popular way to use the word evolution is to suggest that a species will progress from one state to the next. This view of evolution is called anagenetic or cladogenesis. This theory is not supported by the definition of evolution in science. The scientific theory of evolutionary changes focuses on the changes that occur in populations over time. These changes are caused by mutations which result in natural selection and genomic variation. Charles Darwin was one of the scientists who supported this theory. Alfred Russel Wallace who developed the macroevolution theory believed that this was only way the higher living forms could have evolved. For a concept to be referred to as a theory, it has to be capable of standing up to rigorous testing and evidence. Evolution has stood the test of time and has been backed by many scientific disciplines, from geology to biology from astronomy to chemistry. Evolution is a fundamental concept in science and is backed by a majority of scientists across the globe. Many people are misinformed about the nature of the evolution theory and how it connects to religion. What is the Theory of Evolution? Evolution is the scientific explanation for how living things change over time. It is based on few well-established facts: that many more offspring are created than can survive and that different individuals have their physical characteristics, and that they can transmit traits to the next generation. These observations are supported by a growing amount of evidence derived from molecular biology, palaeontology climatology functional geology and morphology. Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace independently developed the theory of evolution by selection in the mid-19th century as a way to explain how organisms are adapted their biological and physical environments. It is the most widely accepted and tested theory in science. Its predictions were confirmed by the fact, for example that more complex organisms have fewer genetic mutations. Additionally, the more successful an organism is at being able to reproduce and survive in its ability to reproduce, the more likely it will be to pass its genes to the next generation. Some people oppose evolution because they believe it implies there is no purpose for life. However, a lot of scientists who are also religious such as the renowned Cambridge palaeontologist Simon Conway Morris, believe that evolution isn't just compatible with faith in God but is enhanced by it (BioLogos 2014). Many highly qualified evolutionary biologists have been involved in developing and testing the theory of evolution, including some respected evangelical Christian leaders. Many of these scientists contributed to the understanding of a broad range of phenomena, including genomics and phylogenetics, as well as the formation and function of fossils. The term “theory” is often used incorrectly to mean an assumption or speculation however it actually refers to a scientific hypothesis that has been thoroughly developed and tested over time. Scientists test hypotheses by repeating the experiments or observations that led them to them. So the theory of evolution theory has been repeatedly proven, as have the corresponding theories of Copernican theory as well as atomic theory and germ theory. What is the Process of Evolution? The process of evolution is a gradual change in the proportions of genetically diverse individuals within a species over time. This change is a result of natural selection, which favors individuals who are better adapted to their environment. The individuals who are more adaptable have a better chance of survival and reproduction. As more of these individuals survive and reproduce their genes, they are more prevalent in the population. This process is sometimes described as “survival of the most fittest.” According to the theory of evolution the causes of mutations that result in genomic variation are what triggers evolution. These mutations may occur randomly or under the influence of the environment. If mutations are random, the resulting allele frequencies may vary from generation to generation. If a mutation is beneficial, it can increase the frequency of the allele and cause the allele to be spread across the population. Over time, these shifts in allele frequencies could lead to the formation of new species. The new species may develop further and evolve into newer forms. This is a process known as macroevolution. The creation of new species is typically a result of changes in the environment, which makes certain resources available or creates new environmental issues. The evolution of finches in the Galapagos Islands, for example is due to the availability of new food and the need to defend themselves against predators. In a larger sense, evolution can be defined as any change in the nature of living organisms over time. The change could be small, such as the development of a new coloration or large, such as the formation of a new organ. Scientists who believe in the theory of evolution generally believe that genetic change is essential in generating evolution. They also acknowledge that evolution is a process that occurs over time, usually over a period of millions of years. They differ on the importance of different factors that can accelerate or slow down the process. For example the role of sexual selection, environmental pressures, and mutation bias. Despite these differences, the majority of scientists are still convinced that evolution is real and the evidence in support of this is overwhelming. What is the Evidence of Evolution? Since Darwin's time, scientists have collected evidence to support his theory of evolution. This evidence comes from fossils that show the evolution of living organisms over time. Another evidence comes from similarities between living organisms embryology, biogeography, genetics and comparative anatomy. The main proof of evolution is in the evolutionary tree, which illustrates how different species are related. Another source of evidence is homologous structures, which share a similar structure in different species but serve different purposes like the wings of bats and birds. The fact that different species evolve and adapt to a similar environment is another sign of evolution. For instance, arctic-foxes and ptarmigans develop seasonal white pelts to blend in with snow and ice. This is a form of convergent evolutionary mechanism, which suggests the species shared ancestral ancestors. Another source of evidence is the existence of vestige structures, which are unutilized organs which could have served a purpose in the distant ancestor. For example the human appendix may be remnants of an earlier organ that served to digest food. Natural selection causes these structures to shrink as they cease to be used. click through the next webpage have also collected other evidence of evolution through observation and experimentation. The evidence for evolution can be grouped into six categories: directly observable small-scale changes in biogeographic distribution, comparative anatomy, the fossil record, genetics, and classification. Each of these provides convincing evidence that the evolution of life has taken place. Many people have misconceptions regarding the theory of evolution. However, it's an established fact. It is not only a theory, it is a mighty collection of decades of observation and accumulated data that has been proven and tested. No matter what people believe or don't believe about the theory of evolution scientists continue to research and collect new data in order to further know the story of life on Earth. This information will aid scientists to understand how to avoid future catastrophes on the planet and how to best use the resources of our planet. This will allow us to better meet the needs of people living on the planet.