Test: Unit 4 - Evolution

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  • 1/67 Questions

    Charles Darwin found fossils that looked like ancient versions of living species. From this evidence Darwin suggested that Earth was

    • Only 6000 years old.
    • Only 2000 years old.
    • Less than 6000 years old.
    • Much more than 6000 years old.
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Test: Unit 4 - Evolution - Quiz
About This Quiz

Explore the lineage of human evolution in 'Test: Unit 4 - Evolution'. This quiz assesses knowledge on early hominids like Australopithecus and Homo species, distinguishing modern humans and understanding primate groups. Ideal for learners in biology and anthropology.

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  • 2. 

    Modern humans are members of which species?

    • Homo neanderthalensis

    • Homo habilis

    • Homo sapiens

    • Homo erectus

    Correct Answer
    A. Homo sapiens
    Explanation
    Modern humans are members of the species Homo sapiens. This is the correct answer because Homo sapiens is the scientific name for modern humans. Homo neanderthalensis, Homo habilis, and Homo erectus are all different species of early humans that lived before modern humans evolved.

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  • 3. 

    ___ is a type of reproductive isolation in which oceans, mountains, or deserts keep populations from interbreeding.

    • Geographic isolation

    • Behavioral isolation

    • Temporal isolation

    • Intersexual isolation

    Correct Answer
    A. Geographic isolation
    Explanation
    Geographic isolation refers to a type of reproductive isolation where physical barriers like oceans, mountains, or deserts prevent populations from interbreeding. These barriers create separate habitats for different populations, limiting their gene flow and leading to the development of distinct species over time. This isolation is crucial in promoting speciation and the formation of new species.

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  • 4. 

    Scientist often take dirt samples from the area around the fossil find. They do this to ....

    • Help determine the relative age of the fossil

    • Keep the fossil from rotting

    • Provide visual context for where the fossil was found

    • Provide a keep-sake of the discovery

    Correct Answer
    A. Help determine the relative age of the fossil
    Explanation
    Scientists often take dirt samples from the area around the fossil find to help determine the relative age of the fossil. By analyzing the layers of sediment and the types of rocks present in the dirt samples, scientists can establish the geological context of the fossil. This information allows them to estimate the age of the fossil based on the age of the surrounding rock layers, providing valuable insights into the timeline of Earth's history and the evolutionary timeline of species.

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  • 5. 

    Two organisms that are closeley related would have ___.

    • Very similar DNA sequences

    • Exactly the same DNA sequences

    • No proteins in common

    • Completely different DNA sequences

    Correct Answer
    A. Very similar DNA sequences
    Explanation
    Two organisms that are closely related would have very similar DNA sequences because they share a common ancestor. Over time, genetic mutations occur and accumulate, leading to slight differences in DNA sequences. However, organisms that are closely related will have fewer genetic differences compared to those that are distantly related. Therefore, their DNA sequences will be more similar, reflecting their shared evolutionary history.

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  • 6. 

    What is the term for a feature that allows an organism to survive better in its environment?

    • Variation

    • Adaptation

    • Homologous structure

    • Vestigial structure

    Correct Answer
    A. Adaptation
    Explanation
    Adaptation is the correct answer because it refers to a feature or trait that allows an organism to better survive in its environment. Through the process of natural selection, organisms with advantageous adaptations are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on these beneficial traits to future generations. This enables the species to better adapt and thrive in their specific environment over time.

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  • 7. 

    Which of the following is a term for a group of similar organisms that can reproduce and produce fertile offspring?

    • Individual

    • Population

    • Species

    • Fossil

    Correct Answer
    A. Species
    Explanation
    A species is a term for a group of similar organisms that can reproduce and produce fertile offspring. This means that individuals within a species are able to mate and produce offspring that are also capable of reproducing. This is a fundamental concept in biology and is used to classify and categorize different organisms based on their ability to interbreed and produce viable offspring.

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  • 8. 

    The process of biological change over time by which descendants come to differ from their ancestors is called ___.

    • Evolution

    • Artificial selection

    • Uniformitarianism

    • Mutation

    Correct Answer
    A. Evolution
    Explanation
    Evolution is the correct answer because it refers to the process of biological change over time, where descendants gradually differ from their ancestors. This process occurs through mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic mutation, and genetic drift. Evolution is a fundamental concept in biology and explains the diversity of life on Earth. It is supported by extensive scientific evidence from various fields, including genetics, paleontology, and comparative anatomy.

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  • 9. 

    Why is it most common to find only the skull of an ancient hominid?

    • They only buried the heads of the dead.

    • Scavengers can carry off the smaller bones much more easily.

    • Skulls tend to look more like rocks.

    • Other hominids cannibalize their dead.

    Correct Answer
    A. Scavengers can carry off the smaller bones much more easily.
    Explanation
    The most common reason for finding only the skull of an ancient hominid is that scavengers can carry off the smaller bones much more easily. Scavengers such as hyenas, lions, and other animals are attracted to the remains of dead animals and often carry away smaller bones to their dens or feeding grounds. The skull, being larger and more solid, is less likely to be carried off and therefore more likely to be preserved and found by archaeologists. This is why it is common to find only the skull of an ancient hominid.

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  • 10. 

    If an organism has a vestigial structure, that structure likely once had a function in a(n)

    • Earlier ancestor.

    • Close relative.

    • Unrelated organism.

    • Embryological stage.

    Correct Answer
    A. Earlier ancestor.
    Explanation
    If an organism has a vestigial structure, it means that the structure is present in the organism but no longer serves a purpose. This suggests that the structure was functional in an earlier ancestor but has become obsolete in the current organism. Therefore, the correct answer is "earlier ancestor."

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  • 11. 

    Which of the following is a fossil?

    • A plant that has recently died

    • A group of similar organisms that can reproduce

    • A structure or organ that no longer functions

    • A trace of an organism that existed in the past

    Correct Answer
    A. A trace of an organism that existed in the past
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "a trace of an organism that existed in the past." Fossils are the preserved remains, impressions, or traces of organisms that lived in the past. These traces can include bones, shells, footprints, or even imprints of leaves or feathers. Fossils provide valuable evidence of past life forms and help scientists understand the history and evolution of different species.

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  • 12. 
    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph? - ProProfs

    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph?

    • Directional selection

    • Disruptive selection

    • Stabilizing selection

    • Sexual selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Directional selection
    Explanation
    The graph shows a shift in the population towards one extreme phenotype over time. This indicates that individuals with this extreme phenotype have a higher fitness and are more likely to survive and reproduce. This is characteristic of directional selection, where the average phenotype of the population changes in a specific direction.

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  • 13. 

    The process by which individuals that are better suited to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully than others is known as ___.

    • Natural selection

    • Sexual selection

    • Genetic drift

    • Gene flow

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural selection
    Explanation
    Natural selection is the process by which individuals that are better adapted to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproductive success. This leads to the passing on of advantageous traits to future generations, while individuals with less favorable traits are less likely to survive and reproduce. This process ultimately drives the evolution of species over time, as favorable traits become more common in a population. Sexual selection, genetic drift, and gene flow are other mechanisms that can influence the genetic composition of a population, but they are not specifically related to individuals being better suited to their environment.

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  • 14. 
    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph? - ProProfs

    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph?

    • Directional selection

    • Disruptive selection

    • Stabilizing selection

    • Sexual selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Disruptive selection
    Explanation
    The graph depicts disruptive selection. Disruptive selection occurs when individuals with extreme traits have higher fitness than individuals with intermediate traits. In the graph, the individuals with the highest and lowest trait values have the highest fitness, while those with intermediate trait values have lower fitness. This leads to the splitting of the population into two distinct groups with different trait values.

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  • 15. 

    The differences between members of the same species are known as ___.

    • Variations

    • Adaptations

    • Mutations

    • Genetic isolation

    Correct Answer
    A. Variations
    Explanation
    Members of the same species can exhibit variations, which refer to the differences in their physical traits or characteristics. These variations can be caused by genetic factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both. Variations are important for the survival and evolution of a species as they provide the raw material for natural selection to act upon. Through variations, individuals within a species can have different advantages or disadvantages in their ability to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual change and adaptation of the species over time. Adaptations, mutations, and genetic isolation are related concepts but do not encompass the overall differences between members of the same species.

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  • 16. 

    What two groups are most hominid species classified into?

    • Australopithecus and Homo

    • Africanus and habilis

    • Homo and sapiens

    • Australopithecus and Anthropida

    Correct Answer
    A. Australopithecus and Homo
    Explanation
    The two groups that most hominid species are classified into are Australopithecus and Homo. Australopithecus is a genus of early hominids that existed in Africa around 4 million to 2 million years ago, while Homo is a genus that includes modern humans and their closest extinct relatives. These two groups represent different stages of human evolution and are important in understanding the development of our species.

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  • 17. 

    Which term means the crossing of two different species that share common genes?

    • Hybridization

    • Mutation

    • Natural selection

    • Sexual selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Hybridization
    Explanation
    Hybridization refers to the process of crossing two different species that have common genes. This can result in the creation of hybrids, which possess a mixture of genetic traits from both parent species. Hybridization is often used in breeding programs to introduce desirable traits from one species into another, and it plays a significant role in the diversification of species.

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  • 18. 

    The ancient bipedal hominid called "Handy Man" is a member of which species?

    • Homo neanderthalensis

    • Homo habilis

    • Homo sapiens

    • Homo erectus

    Correct Answer
    A. Homo habilis
    Explanation
    Homo habilis is the correct answer because it is commonly referred to as "Handy Man." This species lived approximately 2.4 to 1.4 million years ago and is considered one of the earliest members of the genus Homo. Homo habilis is known for its stone tool-making abilities, which earned it the nickname "Handy Man." This species played a significant role in human evolution by demonstrating early tool use and technological advancements.

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  • 19. 

    All of the following branches of science provide evidence for evolution EXCEPT ___.

    • Biogeography

    • Embriology

    • Paleontology

    • Oncology

    Correct Answer
    A. Oncology
    Explanation
    Oncology is the study of cancer, which does not directly provide evidence for evolution. Biogeography studies the distribution of species, which can provide evidence for evolution through patterns of migration and adaptation. Embryology studies the development of embryos, which can provide evidence for evolution through similarities in early stages of development across different species. Paleontology studies fossils, which can provide evidence for evolution through the discovery of transitional forms. Therefore, all the given branches of science except oncology provide evidence for evolution.

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  • 20. 

    Modern whales have vestigieal pelvic bones and lungs instead of gills. What does this evidence suggest about whale ancestors?

    • Whale ancestors lived on land.

    • Whale ancestors did not evolve.

    • Whale ancestors lived 850 million years ago.

    • Whale ancestors ate opossums.

    Correct Answer
    A. Whale ancestors lived on land.
    Explanation
    The evidence of modern whales having vestigial pelvic bones and lungs instead of gills suggests that their ancestors lived on land. This is because pelvic bones are typically found in land-dwelling animals for the attachment of hind limbs, and lungs are adapted for breathing air rather than extracting oxygen from water like gills. Therefore, it can be inferred that whales evolved from terrestrial ancestors and gradually adapted to an aquatic lifestyle over time.

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  • 21. 

    Which theory states that floods and earthquakes have occurred often in Earth's history?

    • Catastrophism

    • Uniformitarianism

    • Gradualism

    • Natural selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Catastrophism
    Explanation
    Catastrophism is the theory that suggests that floods and earthquakes have occurred frequently in Earth's history. This theory proposes that these natural disasters are caused by sudden and violent events, rather than gradual processes. It suggests that the Earth's landscape has been shaped by catastrophic events, such as floods and earthquakes, rather than slow and continuous changes. This theory contrasts with uniformitarianism, which argues that geological processes occur gradually over long periods of time. Gradualism and natural selection are unrelated to the occurrence of floods and earthquakes.

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  • 22. 
    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph? - ProProfs

    Which effect of natural selection is depicted in the graph?

    • Directional selection

    • Disruptive selection

    • Stabilizing selection

    • Sexual selection

    Correct Answer
    A. Stabilizing selection
    Explanation
    Stabilizing selection is depicted in the graph because it shows that the individuals with average or intermediate traits have the highest fitness and are favored by natural selection. This leads to a reduction in the variation of the trait over time, as extreme traits are selected against.

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  • 23. 

    The oldest living primate group are the ___.

    • Prosimians

    • Old world monkeys

    • Hominids

    • Gorillas

    Correct Answer
    A. Prosimians
    Explanation
    Prosimians are considered the oldest living primate group because they are believed to have evolved earlier than other primate groups. They are small, nocturnal primates with characteristics such as a wet nose, large eyes, and a keen sense of smell. Prosimians include lemurs, tarsiers, and lorises. They are found primarily in Madagascar, Southeast Asia, and Africa. This group is considered to be more primitive compared to old world monkeys and hominids, which have evolved more recently. Gorillas, on the other hand, are a species within the hominid group and are not considered the oldest living primate group.

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  • 24. 

    Which of the following is not a characteristic of hominids?

    • Prehensile tails

    • Walking upright

    • Opposable thumbs

    • Large brains

    Correct Answer
    A. Prehensile tails
    Explanation
    Hominids are a group of primates that includes humans and their closest relatives. One of the characteristics of hominids is walking upright, which distinguishes them from other primates who primarily walk on all fours. Another characteristic is the presence of opposable thumbs, which allow for fine motor skills and tool use. Hominids are also known for having large brains, which are associated with higher cognitive abilities. However, prehensile tails, which are tails that can grasp or hold objects, are not a characteristic of hominids.

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  • 25. 

    A ___ is a group of individuals of the same species in the same geographic area.

    • Population

    • Species

    • Breeding family

    • Community

    Correct Answer
    A. Population
    Explanation
    A population refers to a group of individuals of the same species that exist in the same geographic area. This term is commonly used in ecology and biology to describe the number of organisms of a particular species in a specific location. It helps scientists understand the dynamics, distribution, and interactions within a species.

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  • 26. 

    Genetic variation can arise from a random change in the DNA of a gene. This change is called a(n) ___.

    • Mutation

    • Gene flow

    • Gene pool

    • Allele

    Correct Answer
    A. Mutation
    Explanation
    Genetic variation can occur when there is a random alteration in the DNA sequence of a gene, which is referred to as a mutation. This change can lead to differences in the genetic code, resulting in variations in traits and characteristics within a population. Mutations can be caused by various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens, or spontaneous changes in the DNA sequence. These mutations can then be passed on to future generations, contributing to the overall genetic diversity within a species.

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  • 27. 

    A measure of how commonly a particular allele occurs in a population is known as the ___.

    • Gene pool

    • Allele frequency

    • Mutation rate

    • Phenotype

    Correct Answer
    A. Allele frequency
    Explanation
    Allele frequency refers to the proportion or percentage of a particular allele in a population's gene pool. It is a measure of how common or rare a specific allele is within a population. This frequency can be influenced by factors such as natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation rates. By studying allele frequencies, scientists can gain insights into patterns of inheritance, genetic diversity, and population dynamics.

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  • 28. 

    Charles Darwin's poetic grandfather was ___.

    • Erasmus Darwin

    • Eugene Darwin

    • Carolus Linnaeus

    • Georges de Buffon

    Correct Answer
    A. Erasmus Darwin
    Explanation
    Erasmus Darwin was Charles Darwin's poetic grandfather. Erasmus was a physician, natural philosopher, and poet who had a significant influence on Charles Darwin's thinking and scientific pursuits. He was known for his evolutionary ideas and poetic writings, which laid the groundwork for Charles Darwin's own theories on evolution. Therefore, Erasmus Darwin is the correct answer in this context.

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  • 29. 

    The difference in the physical traits of an individual from those of other individuals in a group is called a(n)

    • Variation.

    • Change.

    • Adaptation.

    • Species.

    Correct Answer
    A. Variation.
    Explanation
    The term "variation" refers to the differences in physical traits among individuals within a group. It signifies that individuals within a population may have different characteristics, such as height, eye color, or hair type. "Change" refers to a general alteration or modification, which may not necessarily involve physical traits. "Adaptation" refers to the process by which organisms adjust to their environment over time. "Species" refers to a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Therefore, "variation" is the most appropriate term to describe the differences in physical traits among individuals in a group.

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  • 30. 

    The combined alleles of all the individuals in a population is called the ___.

    • Allele frequency

    • Gene pool

    • Adaptation

    • Phenotype frequency

    Correct Answer
    A. Gene pool
    Explanation
    The combined alleles of all the individuals in a population is called the gene pool. The gene pool represents the total genetic diversity within a population and includes all the different alleles for every gene present in the population. It is an important concept in population genetics and evolution as it influences the potential for genetic variation and adaptation within a population.

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  • 31. 

    The development by scientists of a new color in a rose is the result of

    • Artificial selection

    • Natural selection

    • Descent with modification

    • Overproduction

    Correct Answer
    A. Artificial selection
    Explanation
    The development of a new color in a rose through artificial selection refers to the intentional breeding and selection of roses with desired traits by scientists. They selectively cross-pollinate roses with specific color traits, allowing only those with the desired color to reproduce. Over time, this process leads to the development of roses with the new color. This is different from natural selection, which is a process driven by environmental factors and survival advantages. Descent with modification refers to the gradual changes in species over generations, while overproduction refers to the production of more offspring than can survive.

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  • 32. 

    In searching for the origins of humanity, what characteristic did scientists identify as the first step in human evolution?

    • Bipedal locomotion

    • Language

    • Art and imagination

    • Large brain

    Correct Answer
    A. Bipedal locomotion
    Explanation
    Scientists have identified bipedal locomotion as the first step in human evolution. This means that the ability to walk upright on two legs was a crucial characteristic that distinguished early humans from their primate ancestors. Bipedalism allowed our ancestors to free up their hands for tool use and eventually led to the development of other human traits such as increased brain size, language, and art. Therefore, bipedal locomotion is considered the initial key adaptation that set humans on the path to becoming the species we are today.

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  • 33. 

    Which of the following is not a mechanism for evolution?

    • Natural selection

    • Sexual selection

    • Genetic drift

    • Random mating

    Correct Answer
    A. Random mating
    Explanation
    Random mating is not a mechanism for evolution because it does not cause any changes in the gene pool of a population. In random mating, individuals mate without any preference for certain traits or characteristics, and there is no selection pressure acting on the population. As a result, the frequency of alleles in the gene pool remains unchanged over generations, and no new genetic variations are introduced. In contrast, natural selection, sexual selection, and genetic drift can all lead to changes in the genetic makeup of a population over time, driving evolution.

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  • 34. 

    Which of the following facts supporting evolution would be found in the study of biogeography?

    • Embryos of very different organisms have very similar developmental stages.

    • A bats wing and a whales flipper have very similar bone structure.

    • Large, flightless birds are found on different continents: Australia (Emu), Africa (Ostrich), and Rhea (South America).

    • More primative fossils are found below more complex fossils in the rock layers.

    Correct Answer
    A. Large, flightless birds are found on different continents: Australia (Emu), Africa (Ostrich), and Rhea (South America).
    Explanation
    The fact that large, flightless birds are found on different continents supports the theory of evolution because it suggests that these birds evolved separately on each continent after their ancestors were separated by geographic barriers. This is known as convergent evolution, where similar traits evolve independently in different species due to similar environmental pressures. The presence of flightless birds in different locations indicates that these birds adapted to similar ecological niches on different continents, which is consistent with the concept of evolution.

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  • 35. 

    In natural selection, the selective agent is ___.

    • The environment

    • A breeder

    • Mutation

    • A virus

    Correct Answer
    A. The environment
    Explanation
    In natural selection, the selective agent refers to the factor or condition in the environment that determines which individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce. It is the environment itself that acts as the selective agent, as it determines the traits and characteristics that are advantageous for survival and successful reproduction. The environment plays a crucial role in shaping the process of natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that are better suited to their specific ecological niche.

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  • 36. 

    To help unravel the mysteries of human evolution, paleoanthropologists use all of the following except ___.

    • Fossilized bones

    • Endocasts of the brains

    • Molecular clocks

    • Written historical records

    Correct Answer
    A. Written historical records
    Explanation
    Paleoanthropologists study human evolution by analyzing various sources of evidence. They rely on fossilized bones to understand physical characteristics, endocasts of the brains to examine brain structures, and molecular clocks to estimate the timing of evolutionary events. However, they do not use written historical records as these records generally do not extend far enough back in time to provide information on human evolution. Therefore, written historical records are not a useful tool for paleoanthropologists in unraveling the mysteries of human evolution.

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  • 37. 

    Which scientist proposed that if an organism used a structure so much that it grew, the trait of that larger structure could be passed to its offspring?

    • Jean-Baptiste Lamarck

    • Erasmus Darwin

    • Charles Lyell

    • Georges de Buffon

    Correct Answer
    A. Jean-Baptiste Lamarck
    Explanation
    Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed the theory of inheritance of acquired characteristics, which suggests that if an organism used a structure extensively, causing it to grow, that trait of the larger structure could be passed on to its offspring. This theory, known as Lamarckism, was one of the earliest attempts to explain how traits are inherited and was later proven to be incorrect by the discovery of genetics.

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  • 38. 

    Which of the five mechanisms of evolution is illustrated in the following scenario: A change in body color enabled animals to better hide from predators.

    • Natural selection

    • Gene flow

    • Genetic drift

    • Mutation

    Correct Answer
    A. Natural selection
    Explanation
    The correct answer is natural selection. Natural selection is the process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. In this scenario, animals with a change in body color that allowed them to better hide from predators would have a higher chance of survival compared to those without the advantageous trait. Over time, the population would be dominated by individuals with the advantageous body color, illustrating natural selection.

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  • 39. 

    Which of the following is not a condition for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?

    • No natural selection

    • No sexual selection

    • No mutation

    • No genetic drift

    • No gene flow

    • No overproduction

    Correct Answer
    A. No overproduction
    Explanation
    The condition of "no overproduction" is not a requirement for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium assumes that there is no natural selection, no sexual selection, no mutation, no genetic drift, and no gene flow. Overproduction refers to the idea that populations produce more offspring than can survive, leading to competition for resources and natural selection. However, this condition is not necessary for the maintenance of genetic equilibrium according to the Hardy-Weinberg principle.

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  • 40. 

    ___ is a form of reproductive isolation in which two populations reproduce during different times of the year.

    • Temporal isolation

    • Behavioral isolation

    • Geographic isolation

    • Mutagenic isolation

    Correct Answer
    A. Temporal isolation
    Explanation
    Temporal isolation is a form of reproductive isolation in which two populations reproduce during different times of the year. This means that even if the populations are in the same geographic area and could potentially mate, they are unable to do so because they have different breeding seasons or times of reproductive activity. This can lead to the development of genetic differences and ultimately result in the formation of separate species.

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  • 41. 

    Which of the following is NOT a type of fossil?

    • Cast of a brain

    • Mold of a foot

    • Fossilized "droppings"

    • A dead tree

    Correct Answer
    A. A dead tree
    Explanation
    A dead tree is not a type of fossil because it is a non-living organism that has undergone decomposition, whereas fossils are the preserved remains or traces of once-living organisms. Casts of a brain, molds of a foot, and fossilized "droppings" are all examples of fossils because they are the preserved remains or traces of organisms that have been mineralized over time.

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  • 42. 

    The ancient bipedal hominid called "Lucy" is a member of which species?

    • Australopithecus aferensis

    • Australopithecus africanus

    • Homo sapiens

    • Homo erectus

    Correct Answer
    A. Australopithecus aferensis
    Explanation
    Lucy, the ancient bipedal hominid, is a member of the species Australopithecus aferensis. This is determined based on fossil evidence and analysis, which has identified Lucy's skeletal features and characteristics as belonging to this species. Australopithecus aferensis is an extinct species of early hominids that lived in East Africa around 3.9-2.9 million years ago. Lucy's discovery has provided valuable insights into human evolution and our understanding of early hominid species.

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  • 43. 

    What is the only hominid to co-exist with Homo sapiens in Europe?

    • Homo erectus

    • Homo neanderthalensis

    • Homo habilis

    • Homo robustus

    Correct Answer
    A. Homo neanderthalensis
    Explanation
    Homo neanderthalensis is the correct answer because it is the only hominid species that co-existed with Homo sapiens in Europe. Homo erectus, Homo habilis, and Homo robustus did not overlap in time or geographical location with Homo sapiens in Europe.

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  • 44. 

    The wing of an ostrich would be classified as a(n) ___.

    • Homologous structure

    • Analogous structure

    • Vestigial structure

    • Fossil structure

    Correct Answer
    A. Vestigial structure
    Explanation
    The wing of an ostrich would be classified as a vestigial structure. This is because ostriches have wings, but they are unable to fly. The wings have become reduced in size and are no longer functional for flight, making them vestigial.

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  • 45. 

    The ancient bipedal hominid called "Taung Child" is a member of which species?

    • Australopithecus aferensis

    • Australopithecus africanus

    • Homo sapiens

    • Homo erectus

    Correct Answer
    A. Australopithecus africanus
    Explanation
    The Taung Child, an ancient bipedal hominid, is a member of the species Australopithecus africanus. This species is known for being one of the earliest known ancestors of modern humans. The Taung Child, discovered in South Africa in 1924, played a crucial role in providing evidence for the theory of human evolution. Its fossilized skull provided valuable insights into the physical characteristics and development of early hominids.

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  • 46. 

    Which of the following is not a monkey?

    • Homo sapiens

    • Baboon

    • Lemur

    • Tarsier

    Correct Answer
    A. Homo sapiens
    Explanation
    Homo sapiens is not a monkey because it belongs to the species of great apes, specifically humans. Monkeys are a separate group within the primate order, characterized by their smaller size, long tails, and different anatomical features. While baboons, lemurs, and tarsiers are all examples of monkeys, Homo sapiens is not.

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  • 47. 

    When an individual ___ from its population, the genetic diversity of the population decreases.

    • Emigrates

    • Immigrates

    • Isolates

    • Mutates

    Correct Answer
    A. Emigrates
    Explanation
    When an individual emigrates from its population, it leaves the population and takes its genetic material with it. This results in a decrease in the genetic diversity of the population because the gene pool becomes smaller. The genetic diversity of a population is important for its overall health and ability to adapt to changes in the environment. Therefore, when individuals emigrate, it reduces the genetic diversity and can have negative effects on the population's long-term survival and adaptability.

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  • 48. 

    Scientists attemp to date fossils by examining the radioactive isotopes. This method is called ___.

    • Radiometric dating

    • Relative dating

    • Speed dating

    • Geologic time scaling

    Correct Answer
    A. Radiometric dating
    Explanation
    Radiometric dating is the correct answer because it refers to the process of determining the age of rocks or fossils by measuring the decay of radioactive isotopes. This method relies on the fact that certain isotopes decay at a known rate, allowing scientists to calculate the time since the rock or fossil formed. Relative dating is a different method that compares the age of one object to another, while speed dating is a social activity unrelated to dating fossils. Geologic time scaling is a term used to describe the division of Earth's history into different time periods.

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  • 49. 

    When a few individuals start a new colony, it most likely results in ...

    • Genetic drift through the founder effect.

    • More variety in the new population.

    • Extinction due to the bottleneck effect.

    • Mutation due to disruptive selection.

    Correct Answer
    A. Genetic drift through the founder effect.
    Explanation
    When a few individuals start a new colony, it most likely results in genetic drift through the founder effect. This is because when a small group of individuals establishes a new population, the genetic makeup of the founding individuals becomes the basis for the entire population. As a result, any genetic variations present in the founding individuals will become more prevalent in the new population, leading to genetic drift. This process can result in reduced genetic diversity and the potential for unique genetic traits to become more common in the population.

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  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
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  • Apr 16, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    Christopher Mack
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