Evolution

Which scientist proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

• Gregor Mendel

• Charles Darwin

• Louis Pasteur

• Alfred Russel Wallace

Answer explanation

Charles Darwin proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection, making him the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the primary source of genetic variation in a population?

• mutation

• genetic drift

• gene flow

• natural selection

Answer explanation

The primary source of genetic variation in a population is mutation, which introduces new genetic material and leads to diversity within the gene pool.

What term refers to the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring?

• genetic drift

• mutation

• natural selection

• gene flow

Answer explanation

Natural selection refers to the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, leading to the passing on of advantageous traits to future generations.

Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of evolution?

• mutation

• genetic drift

• gene flow

• photosynthesis

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis is NOT a mechanism of evolution as it is a process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy.

Which type of evidence for evolution involves similarities in the early stages of development among different species?

• Fossil record

• Comparative anatomy

• Comparative embryology

• Molecular biology

Answer explanation

Comparative embryology involves similarities in the early stages of development among different species, providing evidence for evolution.

What is the process by which species evolve into new species over time?

• Speciation

• Genetic drift

• Gene flow

• Convergent evolution

Answer explanation

Speciation is the process by which species evolve into new species over time, making it the correct choice in this context.

The classification system that groups organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics is known as:

• Taxonomy

• Phylogenetics

• Cladistics

• Systematics

Answer explanation

The correct classification system that groups organisms into hierarchical categories based on shared characteristics is known as Taxonomy.

It is defined as the change in inherited traits over successive generations in populations of organisms.

Who independently developed the theory of natural selection along with Charles Darwin?

Name one example of a vestigial organ in humans.