**Heredity and Evolution**

**Introduction:**
Heredity and evolution are two fundamental concepts in biology that explain how traits are passed from parents to offspring and how species change over time. These concepts help us understand the diversity of life on Earth and the mechanisms behind it.

**Heredity:**
Heredity is the process by which traits are inherited or passed on from one generation to the next. It is based on the transmission of genes, which are segments of DNA that carry the instructions for specific traits. Heredity explains why offspring resemble their parents and why certain traits run in families.

**Evolution:**
Evolution is the gradual change in the genetic makeup of a population over time. It occurs through the process of natural selection, which favors individuals with traits that are advantageous for survival and reproduction. Evolution explains the diversity of species and the development of new traits over millions of years.

**Previous Year Questions on Heredity and Evolution:**

1. What is heredity? How is it related to genes and DNA?
2. Explain the role of genes in heredity.
3. Describe the process of inheritance in humans.
4. How does sexual reproduction contribute to genetic variation?
5. What is a mutation? How can it affect the heredity of traits?
6. Explain the concept of natural selection and its role in evolution.
7. Give examples of adaptations in plants and animals that have evolved over time.
8. How does the fossil record provide evidence for evolution?
9. Discuss the contributions of Charles Darwin to the theory of evolution.
10. What is the significance of genetic variation in a population?

**Conclusion:**
Heredity and evolution are crucial concepts in biology that help us understand how traits are passed from one generation to the next and how species change over time. By studying these concepts, we gain insights into the diversity of life and the mechanisms behind it.