What term describes the process of something becoming worse over time?

The term that describes the process of something becoming worse over time is degeneration. Degeneration refers to the deterioration or decline in the quality, function, or structure of a tissue or organ, often associated with aging, disease, or injury. This process can lead to the loss of vitality and can significantly impact health and functionality.

In contrast, mutation refers to a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to different traits or characteristics, often in the context of genetics. Amelioration signifies improvement or making something better, which is the opposite of degeneration. Evolution represents the gradual development of species or traits over time through natural selection, which does not necessarily imply a decline in quality but rather adaptation and change. Understanding these distinctions is vital for comprehending various health and biological processes.