Basics of Evolution Quiz

Which statement is an inference that can be made based on the theory of natural selection?

• Individuals that reproduce contribute to the gene pool of the next generation.

• All species produce more offspring than can survive.

• Individuals that are better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

• Variation exists within the genes of every population or species.

The beaks of finches on the Galápagos Islands are examples of

• homologous structures.

• vestigial structures.

• adaptation through natural selection.

• genetic drift.

Which provides the best evidence that two species are closely related?

• Similar habitats

• Similar niches

• Similar DNA sequences

• Similar food sources

Fossil records are used by scientists to make inferences about

• the age of the Earth.

• the diets of ancient organisms.

• the evolutionary relationships among organisms.

• the migration patterns of early humans.

Which concept is a key component of the theory of evolution?

• Overproduction

• Use and disuse

• Acquired characteristics

• Spontaneous generation

A certain species of finch has a beak shape that is different from the beak shapes of other finches. This difference in beak shape is most likely due to

• the finch’s preference for certain foods.

• the finch’s migration to a different environment.

• genetic variation and adaptation to the available food sources.

• the age of the finch compared to other finches.

The presence of similar structures in organisms that have a common ancestor is known as

• convergent evolution.

• divergent evolution.

• homologous structures.

• analogous structures.

Which statement best describes an adaptation?

• A behavior that animals are taught after they are born

• A structural or functional change that enhances the survival of an organism

• A temporary change in an organism’s behavior due to environmental changes

• A rapid change in the gene pool due to a sudden environmental shift

Phylogeny is best described as

• the study of life and its origins.

• the evolutionary history of a species or group of related species.

• the comparison of the physical characteristics of different species.

• the geographical distribution of species.

Which of the following is considered a fossil?

• A preserved piece of bone

• A shell or old bone that has turned into stone

• An imprint of a plant or animal in a rock

• All of the above