Adaptation — Science definition

Defined in 3 courses:

Where it is taught

In use

An adaptation is a heritable feature that was favoured because of what it did for survival and reproduction in a particular environment, which means it is always an adaptation to something and can become a liability when conditions change.

Natural Selection, Adaptation & Population Change

The lasting result of this slow filtering is adaptation — a trait so well matched to its environment that it looks almost designed: the camouflage of a stick insect, the water-storing tissue of a cactus, the streamlined body of a shark.

Natural Selection

Questions using adaptation

Problem 1

Which statement correctly uses adaptation in Climate Evidence, Greenhouse Gases & Responses?
  1. A classroom jar or one trend graph proves every cause and policy conclusion.
  2. The atmosphere is a perfectly sealed roof that blocks all outgoing energy.
  3. adaptation: Reducing exposure or harm under changed conditions.
  4. One illustrative result establishes every real condition and needs no further evidence.
Answer and explanation

adaptation: Reducing exposure or harm under changed conditions.

Reducing exposure or harm under changed conditions. The shade plan addresses exposure adaptation but exceeds the five-token limit. The redesign fits the cost condition and targets energy use; any emissions benefit would depend on the energy source and other information. A 3 °C change and 20 energy units are different quantities and cannot be added as one score. The records are illustrative, not a tested policy or a required preference.

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