Evolution and Genetics - Crash Course

What is the primary role of evolution in the diversity of life on Earth?

• To create competition for resources

• To decrease biodiversity

• To adapt organisms to changing environments

• To increase genetic mutations

What does the fossil record demonstrate about ancient life forms?

• They were identical to modern species

• They were less diverse than today's species

• They have not changed over time

• They were different and have evolved

Which of the following is an example of a vestigial structure found in whales?

• Blowhole

• Dorsal fin

• Flippers

• Pelvis and hind-limb bones

How do homologous structures support the theory of evolution?

• By showing identical functions in different species

• By demonstrating common ancestry through similar structures

• By proving that all species have the same DNA

• By showing that evolution does not occur

What did Carl Linnaeus contribute to the understanding of evolution?

• He discovered DNA

• He refuted the idea of evolution

• He developed the theory of natural selection

• He grouped organisms by structural similarities

Why are marsupials primarily found in Australia according to evolutionary theory?

• Because they were placed there by humans

• Because of their preference for the climate

• Due to geographical isolation and evolutionary divergence

• Due to selective breeding

What does biogeography study in the context of evolution?

• The biochemical processes in living organisms

• The genetic makeup of organisms

• The climate changes over geological time scales

• The distribution of living things across the world

What evidence of evolution can be observed within human lifetimes?

• None, evolution takes millions of years

• Development of resistance to chemicals in insects

• Fossil formation

• Instant creation of new species

Which of the following is a direct observation of evolution?

• The migration patterns of monarch butterflies

• The extinction of the dodo bird

• Development of fermenting chambers in lizards

• Changes in the skull shape of dinosaurs