Question

What does the term adaptation mean? How does adaptation explain the patterns of distribution of plant and animal species in the world?

Answer 1

It means to become accustom to or suitable, to a new environment.
For example, we're not fit to live on the sun, but if by for some strange reason, we develop this special gene that transforms our skin to superskin that is able to resist temperatures of over 1000000000 degree's or whatever, we can adapt to living on the sun. But, if we went now, we will not.

Answer 2

Thanks. This helps :)