Convergent vs. Divergent Evolution

What is convergent evolution?

• The process where unrelated species evolve similar traits

• The process where related species evolve different traits

• The process of species becoming extinct

• The process of species migrating to new environments

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Which of the following is an example of divergent evolution?

• Wings of bats and birds

• Fins of sharks and dolphins

• Darwin's finches on the Galápagos Islands

• Eyes of octopuses and humans

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

What is a key characteristic of convergent evolution?

• It leads to homologous structures

• It leads to analogous structures

• It results in genetic drift

• It causes speciation

Which of the following best describes divergent evolution?

• Unrelated species develop similar traits

• Related species develop different traits

• Species evolve to become more similar

• Species evolve to become more different

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Which of the following pairs is an example of convergent evolution?

• Cacti and euphorbias

• Wolves and foxes

• Lions and tigers

• Elephants and mammoths

How does convergent evolution occur?

• Through genetic mutation

• Through natural selection in similar environments

• Through artificial selection

• Through genetic engineering

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-4

What is the main difference between convergent and divergent evolution?

• Convergent evolution involves similar environments; divergent involves different environments

• Convergent evolution involves different environments; divergent involves similar environments

• Convergent evolution leads to speciation; divergent does not

• Divergent evolution leads to extinction; convergent does not

Which of the following is NOT an example of convergent evolution?

• Wings of insects and birds

• Flippers of penguins and seals

• Eyes of vertebrates and cephalopods

• Beaks of Darwin's finches

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

What role does the environment play in convergent evolution?

• It has no role

• It provides similar selective pressures

• It causes genetic drift

• It leads to random mutations

Tags

NGSS.HS-LS4-4

NGSS.HS-LS4-5

Which of the following is a result of divergent evolution?

• Analogous structures

• Homologous structures

• Vestigial structures

• Mimicry

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2