Evolution

Charles Darwin first proposed the theory of evolution in his 1859 book, "On the Origin of Species." The theory has undergone considerable change since that year. Which of the following statements best explains why the theory of evolution is now different than it was in 1859?

• The theory has been updated in more modern language.

• The theory has been debunked by scientists from other fields.

• The theory has been mostly retracted as incorrect parts were found.

• The theory has been revised as later scientists made new discoveries.

Which of the following is NOT an example of evidence that supports the theory of evolution?

• common genetic ancestors among diverse species

• fossil evidence suggesting ancient genetic ancestors

• unnecessary or nonfunctional organs in modern species

• fossils of the same species found in diverse geographic locations

Which is the best explanation of why DNA can be used to show relationships between species?

• DNA sequences will be similar among species that eat the same kinds of food.

• DNA sequences will be similar in species that have evolved together through natural selection.

• DNA sequences will be similar in species that undergo the same catastrophic events

• DNA sequences will be similar in species that are exposed to the same radiation sources.

Which of these statements is true about fossils and how they are used in evolutionary science?

• Fossils will likely show transitional species that have evolved into species alive today.

• Fossils in deep layers will be of the same species that currently exist.

• If fossils of some animal's ancestors are not found, it means those animals have not changed over time.

• The fossils of species that are related through evolution will not be found in the same areas.

The diagram shows two populations of toads. Population B formed after a few toads from population A were carried into a new environment. Based on the diagram, how might the toads in population B differ from the toads in population A after several generations?

• The toads in population B might have smaller eyes in order to see in the dark

• The toads in population B might have a longer tongue in order to catch distant prey.

• The toads in population B might have darker skin in order to blend into their environment.

• The toads in population B might have brighter skin in order to attract prey.

Scientists believe that birds and reptiles evolved from a common ancestor over millions of years. Which of the following offers the most direct support for this theory?

• the RNA of an extinct reptile

• the Linnaean classification

• the DNA of a living horse

• the fossil record

All living organisms have the same biochemical life processes. What is most likely true?

• All organisms emerged at the same time and place.

• All organisms are related through evolution and natural selection.

• The biochemical processes in living organisms are unrelated to evolution.

• The biochemical processes arose separately in different kinds of living organisms.

What does this diagram tell you about the relationship between these organisms?

• They are in the same genus.

• They are in the same species.

• They all have a common ancestor.

• They all do not have a common ancestor.

Which of these is NOT similar in species that are related via evolution?

• The proteins they produce will have similar amino acid sequences.

• They will have similar embryonic development.

• They will have analogous anatomical structures.

• They will have similar DNA sequences.

Birds and butterflies both have wings that allow them to fly. What is most likely true about the animals?

• They have similar genetic sequences.

• They must have evolved from the same ancestor.

• Their fossils show that their ancestor's skeletons have homologous structures.

• They have analogous structures that evolved from a different source.