Evidence supporting Evolution  

 

You need to know the following evidence for evolution:

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1. Fossils

 

There are 3 ways fossils form: 

1. No decay - the organism does not decay and is instead preserved (e.g., frozen, dry)  

2. Minerals replace decaying parts → hard fossil  

3. Traces (footprints, burrows)

 

The main issue with fossils being an evidence for evolution is that most primitive organisms were soft-bodied so fossils were unable to form. This makes it hard to trace the origin of life.

 

2. Antibiotic Resistance

 

How does antibiotic resistance develop?

  

1. Mutation in bacteria leads to a resistance gene  

2. Antibiotic kills non-resistant bacteria  

3. Resistant bacteria survive & reproduce  

4. Resistant population grows  

 

This supports evolution as it shows how organisms constantly mutate and adapt to their surroundings.

 

MRSA is an example of an antibiotic-resistant superbug.

 

Antibiotic resistance is a huge issue so we slow it down in the following ways: 

1. Prescribe only when needed  

2. Finish full course - reduces change of any bacteria surviving

3. Limit use in farming

 

New antibiotics are constantly being produced but the process is expensive and slow.