AP Biology Flashcards: Continuing Evolution
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
Define 'evolution of resistance'.
The evolution of resistance is the process by which a population of organisms evolves to withstand a substance that was previously toxic, such as antibiotics, pesticides, or other drugs.
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Define 'evolution of resistance'.
The evolution of resistance is the process by which a population of organisms evolves to withstand a substance that was previously toxic, such as antibiotics, pesticides, or other drugs.
Besides antibiotics and pesticides, what is another example of a substance to which organisms can evolve resistance?
Based on the evidence provided, organisms can also evolve resistance to other drugs, such as antiviral or chemotherapy medications.
How do genomic changes provide evidence for continuing evolution?
Genomic changes, or mutations and shifts in allele frequencies within a population's DNA over time, serve as direct molecular evidence that species continue to evolve.
Is evolution a process that only occurred in the past?
No, evolution is an ongoing process that continues to occur in all living organisms.
What is meant by the term 'continuing evolution'?
Continuing evolution is the principle that all species are constantly undergoing evolutionary change, which is an ongoing process rather than a historical event.
How does the fossil record support the idea that evolution is a continuous process?
The fossil record shows a sequence of morphological changes in species over long periods, illustrating that evolution is not a single event but an ongoing process of transformation.
A farmer finds that a pesticide used for years is now less effective on an insect population. How does this relate to evolution?
This is an example of continuing evolution, specifically the evolution of pesticide resistance within the insect species.
A specific antibiotic is no longer effective against a bacterial infection. What evolutionary phenomenon does this exemplify?
This demonstrates the continuing evolution of resistance, where the bacterial species has evolved to be unaffected by the antibiotic drug.
List three major lines of evidence that demonstrate evolution is an ongoing process.
Evidence for continuing evolution includes genomic changes over time, the fossil record, and the evolution of resistance to substances like antibiotics and pesticides.
In which organisms is evolution considered to be an ongoing process?
Evolution is an ongoing process in all living organisms, from bacteria to complex animals and plants.