Evolution Trivia Quiz: Test Your Knowledge!

1.

Natural Selection is the effect of the environment on reproductive success based on genetic variation.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
Natural selection is the process by which certain traits or characteristics become more or less common in a population over time due to their impact on reproductive success. The environment plays a crucial role in determining which traits are advantageous or disadvantageous for survival and reproduction. Genetic variation within a population allows for the potential for individuals with beneficial traits to arise through mutation or recombination. These individuals are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation, leading to a gradual change in the overall genetic makeup of the population. Therefore, the statement that natural selection is the effect of the environment on reproductive success based on genetic variation is true.

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2.

Which of the following are examples of adaptations?

A.

Orchid Mantis using camouflage to blend in
B.

Wolves hunting in packs
C.

The mimic octopus changing shape/color to look like different animals
D.

Humans creating automobiles

Correct Answer(s)
A. Orchid Mantis using camouflage to blend in
B. Wolves hunting in packs
C. The mimic octopus changing shape/color to look like different animals

Explanation
The given options are all examples of adaptations in different organisms. Orchid Mantis using camouflage to blend in is an adaptation that helps it hide from predators or prey. Wolves hunting in packs is an adaptation that allows them to work together to catch larger prey. The mimic octopus changing shape/color to look like different animals is an adaptation that helps it avoid predators or attract prey. Humans creating automobiles, on the other hand, is not an example of adaptation in the biological sense, as it is a result of human innovation and technology.

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3.

There are 60 genes in the gene pool what is the allelic frequency on X3?

A.

16/60
B.

17/60
C.

18/60
D.

4/15

Correct Answer
B. 17/60

Explanation
The allelic frequency on X3 is 17/60. This means that out of the 60 genes in the gene pool, 17 of them have the X3 allele.

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4.

What was the name of Darwin's ship?

A.

HMS Bulldog
B.

HMS Poodle
C.

HMS Beagle
D.

HMS Pug

Correct Answer
C. HMS Beagle

Explanation
The correct answer is HMS Beagle. HMS Beagle was the name of the ship that Charles Darwin sailed on during his famous voyage around the world from 1831 to 1836. This voyage provided Darwin with the opportunity to study and collect specimens of various plants, animals, and fossils, which later contributed to the development of his theory of evolution. The ship played a crucial role in Darwin's scientific journey and is therefore an important part of his legacy.

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5.

Which of these was not a species of tortoise in the Galapagos Island?

A.

Dome
B.

Half Shell
C.

Full Shell
D.

Saddle back

Correct Answer
C. Full Shell

Explanation
The Galapagos Islands are known for their unique and diverse species of tortoises. Dome, Half Shell, and Saddle back are all valid species of tortoises found in the Galapagos Islands. However, "Full Shell" is not a recognized species of tortoise in the Galapagos Islands.

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6.

Which of these is most likely to be adapted to eat insects 1,2, 3, 4?

Correct Answer
4

7.

The struggle for existence among individuals is ____________

A.

Adaptation
B.

Mutation
C.

Survival of the fittest
D.

Evolution

Correct Answer
C. Survival of the fittest

Explanation
The correct answer is "Survival of the fittest". This concept, coined by Charles Darwin, refers to the idea that in a population, individuals with advantageous traits that allow them to better adapt to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. It highlights the competitive nature of life, where individuals must compete for limited resources and only the most adapted and fit individuals are able to thrive and pass on their genes.

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8.

Survival of the fittest and Natural Selection are synonyms.

A.

True
B.

False

Correct Answer
A. True

Explanation
Survival of the fittest and Natural Selection are synonyms because they both refer to the same concept in evolutionary biology. Both terms describe the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. This process leads to the adaptation and evolution of species over time. Therefore, it is accurate to say that Survival of the fittest and Natural Selection are synonymous terms.

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9.

Which of the following is NOT true of natural selection?

A.

It acts on genotypes.
B.

Individuals can not change in their lifetime.
C.

It is a long process of favoring certain traits.
D.

It makes changes in the gene pool

Correct Answer
A. It acts on genotypes.

Explanation
Natural selection does not act on genotypes, but rather on phenotypes. Genotypes refer to the genetic makeup of an organism, while phenotypes are the observable characteristics or traits that result from the interaction between an organism's genotype and its environment. Natural selection acts on phenotypes by favoring certain traits that provide a reproductive advantage, leading to the survival and reproduction of individuals with those traits. This process can result in changes in the gene pool over time, as individuals with advantageous traits pass on their genes to future generations.

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10.

What scientific discovery, made after Darwin published the Origin of Species, helped to prove evolution?

Correct Answer
Genetics

Explanation
Genetics is the scientific discovery made after Darwin published the Origin of Species that helped to prove evolution. Genetics is the study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics, and it provides evidence for the mechanisms of evolution. It explains how traits are passed down from one generation to another through genes, and how genetic mutations and recombination lead to genetic variation within populations. By studying genetics, scientists have been able to uncover the genetic similarities and differences between species, providing further support for the theory of evolution.

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