Evolution and Natural Selection Quiz

Who is known for formulating the theory of evolution by natural selection?

• Gregor Mendel

• Charles Darwin

• Isaac Newton

• Albert Einstein

What does natural selection depend on?

• The ability of individuals to learn from experience

• Random mating between individuals

• Variations in traits that affect the survival and reproduction of individuals

• The use of tools by animals

Which of the following is an example of adaptation?

• A polar bear's white fur

• A tree losing its leaves in winter

• A human learning a new language

• A car being modified for better performance

What is the primary mechanism by which evolution occurs according to Darwin's theory?

• Mutation

• Genetic Drift

• Natural Selection

• Artificial Selection

Which of the following best describes the concept of "survival of the fittest"?

• The strongest animals in a population are the only ones that survive.

• Individuals that are best adapted to their environment survive and reproduce.

• Only the fastest animals in a population can escape predators and survive.

• Animals with the most aggressive behaviors dominate and survive.

What evidence supports the theory of evolution?

• The fossil record

• The food web

• The Cell Theory

• All of the above

What is a mutation?

• A change in a species' behavior

• A change in the DNA of an organism

• A change in the environment

• A change in a species' diet

Which of the following is NOT a form of evidence for evolution?

• The existence of homologous structures

• The presence of vestigial organs

• The consistency of DNA sequences among different species

• The stability of ecosystems over time

How do beneficial traits become more common in a population?

• Through the process of natural selection

• By individuals choosing to change their traits

• Through the direct influence of the environment

• By random chance alone

What role does genetic variation play in natural selection?

• It has no effect on natural selection.

• It decreases the chances of survival for a species.

• It provides the raw material for natural selection to act upon.

• It ensures that all individuals in a population are identical.