Evolution Review #1

Which best describes a result of natural selection?

• no changes occur in the genetic composition of organisms

• reproduction among species is reduced

• no accumulation of favored allele

• organisms become better adapted to their environment

What is the best way to determine the evolutionary relationships between species?

• by comparing their bone structures

• by comparing their physical appearance

• by comparing the amino acid sequences of their proteins

• by comparing fossils that resemble the organisms to identify common ancestors

Darwin’s theory of evolution is based on which of these?

• use and disuse

• natural selection

• genetic mutations

• acquired characteristics

Which scenario best provides evidence of evolution?

• two organisms that look alike

• two organisms with similar DNA

• two organisms with divergent features

• two organisms with convergent features

Which is the best reason for why we modify the classification of organisms?

• new ideas

• the history of classification

• newly discovered evolutionary relationships

• the changing nature of binomial nomenclature

Organisms have long been classified based on their structural similarities and differences. Which technique has very recently provided scientists with another important tool in this process?

• DNA analysis

• dichotomous keys

• improved animal trapping ability

• computer-generated cladograms

Which category of classification has the largest variety of organisms?

• genus

• phylum

• species

• kingdom

Which statement is most likely the explanation of why certain animals are able to adapt to changing environments?

• Some species have a greater variation in their genetic makeup. 


• Some species have mostly dominant genes. 


• Some species have unlimited habitats. 


• Some species react by mutating. 


Which of these most likely determines if a mutation will become an adaptation in a species?

• genetic variation 


• mitosis

• natural selection 


• succession

Which will scientists most likely use to classify a newly discovered organism?

• knowledge of diet

• biochemical makeup

• location where found


• physical characteristics