Q2
1 markVery Short AnswerSection A

What is speciation?

Heredity
Speciation
Official Answer

Speciation is the evolutionary process by which new, distinct species are formed from existing populations. This typically occurs when populations of a species become reproductively isolated from one another, leading to the accumulation of independent genetic variations over time.

formation of new speciesexisting speciesreproductive isolationgenetic drift

Marking Scheme

  • 1Definition of speciation as the formation of new species from existing ones (1 mark)

Hint

Think about how a single group of organisms splits into two groups that can no longer reproduce with each other.

Quick Oral Answer

Speciation is the process of the formation of new species from pre-existing ones, usually due to geographical isolation and genetic variation.

Analysis & Explanation

Speciation occurs when a single species splits into two or more distinct species that can no longer interbreed. Although the rationalized NCERT text focuses primarily on heredity, speciation is a fundamental concept in genetics and evolution. It is driven by factors such as geographical isolation, genetic drift, natural selection, and severe reproductive barriers.

Common Mistakes

  1. 1Confusing speciation with simple variation within a single species.
  2. 2Forgetting to mention that the new species can no longer interbreed with the original population.

Interesting Facts

Speciation can happen rapidly in plants through a process called polyploidy, where an offspring has more than two sets of chromosomes, instantly making it reproductively isolated from its parents.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2013?

This question carries 1 mark in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2013 examination.

Which chapter does this question come from in Science?

This question is from the chapter "Heredity" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.

What topic does this question cover in Science?

This question covers the topic "Speciation" from CBSE Class 10 Science.

What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2013 paper?

This is a Very Short Answer question from Section A in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2013 paper.