Give The Respective Scientific Terms Used for Studying: (i) The Mechanism by Which Variation Are Created and Inherited and (ii) The Development of New Type of Organisms from The Existing Ones.


Introduction

The world we live in is diverse, and it is not just the physical landscapes that differ from one another, but the living organisms as well. There are millions of species of living organisms, each with its unique characteristics and traits. For centuries, scientists have been trying to understand the mechanisms by which variation is created and inherited, as well as how new types of organisms develop from the existing ones.

In this article, we will explore these two areas of study and the scientific terms associated with them.

(i) The Mechanism by Which Variation Is Created and Inherited

The process of variation refers to the differences that exist between individuals of the same species. These differences can be seen in physical characteristics such as size, colour, and shape, as well as in behavioural traits like temperament and mating habits. Scientists have been studying the mechanism by which these variations are created and inherited for many years, and they have come up with several theories to explain it.

One of the most well-known theories of inheritance is the theory of natural selection. This theory, proposed by Charles Darwin in the 19th century, suggests that organisms with traits that give them an advantage in their environment are more likely to survive and pass on those advantageous traits to their offspring. Over time, this process results in the evolution of new species.

Another theory of inheritance is the theory of genetics. This theory, developed by Gregor Mendel in the 19th century, suggests that traits are passed down from parents to offspring through discrete units called genes. These genes are located on chromosomes and are responsible for the physical and behavioural traits that we see in living organisms.

The study of genetics has advanced significantly over the years, and today scientists are able to manipulate genes to create new variations and traits in living organisms. This process, known as genetic engineering, has been used to create crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases, as well as to produce medicines and vaccines.

(ii) The Development of New Types of Organisms from The Existing Ones

The development of new types of organisms from existing ones is a process known as speciation. Speciation occurs when a group of organisms becomes genetically isolated from the rest of their species and evolves independently, eventually becoming a new species.

There are several ways in which speciation can occur.

One way is through geographic isolation. This occurs when a physical barrier, such as a mountain range or a body of water, separates a population of organisms from the rest of heir species. Over time, the isolated population will evolve independently, and if the genetic differences between the two populations become significant enough, they may no longer be able to interbreed and will become separate species.

Another way in which speciation can occur is through polyploidy. Polyploidy is a condition in which an organism has more than two sets of chromosomes. This can occur naturally, or it can be induced through genetic engineering. Polyploid organisms are often sterile and cannot reproduce with their parent species, which can lead to the development of a new species over time.

The study of speciation is important because it helps us to understand the origins of the many different species of living organisms that exist on earth today. It also has practical applications in fields such as agriculture, where scientists are working to develop crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the mechanisms by which variation is created and inherited, as well as the development of new types of organisms from existing ones, are two areas of study that have fascinated scientists for centuries.

Through the study of natural selection, genetics, and speciation, we have gained a greater understanding of the origins of the many different species of living organisms that exist on earth today. This understanding has practical applications in fields such as agriculture, where scientists are working to develop crops that are more resistant to pests and diseases.

Updated on: 03-May-2023

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