Evolution and Natural Selection Quiz

Which scientist is credited with the theory of evolution through natural selection?

• Gregor Mendel

• Charles Darwin

• Isaac Newton

• Louis Pasteur

What is the process by which individuals that are better suited to their environment survive and reproduce most successfully?

• Genetic drift

• Mutation

• Natural selection

• Artificial selection

Which of the following is NOT a key component of natural selection?

• Overproduction of offspring

• Inherited variation

• Survival of the fittest

• Equal chances of survival for all

Fossil records provide evidence for evolution because they show:

• Immediate changes in species over time

• No changes in species over millions of years

• Gradual changes in species over long periods of time

• That all species appeared at the same time

What does genetic variation refer to in a population?

• Uniform characteristics in all individuals

• No differences in the genetic makeup of individuals

• Differences in the genetic makeup of individuals

• The absence of genetic disorders

Which of the following best describes the role of mutations in evolution?

• Mutations always harm an organism and are never beneficial.

• Mutations do not contribute to genetic variation.

• Mutations can introduce new genetic variations, some of which may be beneficial.

• Mutations eliminate genetic variation within a population.

Why is overproduction of offspring a component of natural selection?

• It ensures that all offspring will survive to adulthood.

• It increases the likelihood that some offspring will survive environmental pressures.

• It decreases competition within a species.

• It ensures that parents can care for all their offspring.

How do fossils demonstrate evidence of the evolutionary history of life on Earth?

• By showing that life forms have remained unchanged for millions of years.

• By revealing the existence of species that no longer exist today.

• By proving that all species on Earth originated from a single common ancestor.

• By indicating that climate change has had no impact on evolution.

What is the significance of the Galápagos finches in the study of evolution?

• They show no significant differences between species.

• They are an example of species that have not evolved.

• They demonstrate how different environmental conditions can lead to variations within a species.

• They prove that evolution does not occur on islands.

Which of the following is an example of an adaptation?

• A polar bear's white fur, which camouflages it in the snow

• A mutation causing a rabbit to be born with six legs

• A plant dying because it cannot tolerate drought conditions

• All animals in a forest being the same color