Class 12 Biology - Chapter: Evolution
(Full Notes)
Introduction to Evolution
Evolution is the process by which different kinds of living organisms have developed and
diversified from earlier forms during the history of the Earth. It explains the origin of life
and the gradual development of species over time.
Origin of Life
• The most accepted theory is the chemical origin of life, proposed by Oparin and Haldane.
• Life originated in a 'primordial soup' of organic molecules.
• Miller and Urey’s experiment (1953) provided evidence by synthesizing amino acids in a
laboratory setup mimicking early Earth conditions.
Theories of Evolution
1. Lamarckism:
- Proposed by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck.
- Use and disuse of organs and inheritance of acquired characteristics.
2. Darwinism (Natural Selection):
- Proposed by Charles Darwin.
- Survival of the fittest and natural selection.
3. Mutation Theory:
- Proposed by Hugo de Vries.
- Evolution occurs due to sudden mutations.
Evidences of Evolution
• Paleontological Evidence – Fossils
• Comparative Anatomy and Morphology – Homologous, Analogous, Vestigial Organs
• Embryological Evidence – Similar embryonic stages
• Molecular Evidence – Similarities in DNA, RNA, proteins
Types of Evolution
• Divergent Evolution – Homologous structures (common ancestor)
• Convergent Evolution – Analogous structures (different ancestors)
• Adaptive Radiation – Evolution from a common ancestor into various forms suited to
different environments
Hardy-Weinberg Principle
• Allele frequencies in a population remain constant from generation to generation if certain
conditions are met.
• p² + 2pq + q² = 1 (where p and q are allele frequencies)
• Factors affecting equilibrium: mutation, gene flow, genetic drift, non-random mating,
natural selection
Speciation
• The formation of new species from pre-existing species.
• Types:
- Allopatric Speciation (geographical isolation)
- Sympatric Speciation (without geographical barrier)
Human Evolution
• Primates evolved about 15 million years ago.
• Dryopithecus and Ramapithecus were early ancestors.
• Homo habilis (2 mya), Homo erectus (1.5 mya), Neanderthal man, Homo sapiens
• Modern humans originated in Africa and migrated to other continents.
