Evolution Evidence Quiz

What are the two bold claims made by the theory of Biological Evolution?

• Evolution is a random process.

• All living things on earth evolved from a common ancestor.

• All living things have unique origins.

• Living things do not change over time.

Which branch of the evolutionary tree is focused on to explain evolution?

• Reptiles

• Cetaceans

• Birds

• Amphibians

Why are cetaceans considered a good example to study evolution?

• Because they are the only mammals living in water.

• Because they show clear evidence of evolution from land to aquatic life.

• Because they have not changed over millions of years.

• Because they are the largest animals on Earth.

What is comparative anatomy?

• Study of similarities and differences in the anatomy of different species

• Study of animal genetics

• Study of animal behavior

• Study of animal habitats

What feature of whales suggests they evolved from land mammals?

• Absence of hair

• Ability to breathe underwater

• Presence of gills

• Presence of arm, wrist, hand, and finger bones in their flippers

What does embryology tell us about the evolution of whales?

• Whale embryos have gills at early stages.

• Whale embryos show development of leg buds that later disappear.

• Whale embryos are identical to fish embryos.

• Whale embryos develop blowholes at later stages.

What role do embryological studies play in understanding evolution?

• They show how embryos of different species are completely different.

• They are used to study the behavior of ancient species.

• They help in understanding the diet of ancient species.

• They provide insights into the developmental stages and evolutionary history.

What significant feature is found in basilosaurid whales?

• Absence of hip bones

• Nasal openings in the middle of the snout

• Nasal openings on top of the head

• Fully developed back legs

What does the presence of small legs in basilosaurid whales suggest?

• They were used for walking on land.

• They were remnants from their evolutionary history.

• They were used for swimming.

• They had no function.

What is the significance of finding Maiacetus fossils among sea-creature fossils?

• It suggests Maiacetus was a land animal.

• It supports the idea that Maiacetus had aquatic habits.

• It indicates Maiacetus was a deep-sea creature.

• It proves Maiacetus was unrelated to whales.