Understanding Darwin's Theory of Evolution

What did Western scientists believe about the origin of mankind until the mid-19th century?

• That mankind evolved from common ancestors

• That mankind was created by a divine force in God's image

• That mankind was a result of alien intervention

• That mankind appeared spontaneously

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Who was the first to explain with evidence how evolution might occur?

• Alfred Russel Wallace

• Thomas Robert Malthus

• Gregor Mendel

• Charles Darwin

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What mechanism did Darwin propose as a means of evolution?

• Artificial selection

• Genetic mutation

• Selective breeding

• Natural selection

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In what year did Darwin embark on the HMS Beagle expedition?

• 1831

• 1841

• 1821

• 1851

What did Darwin observe about the tortoises in the Galapagos Islands?

• They all looked the same

• They were all extinct

• They had unique characteristics depending on their island

• They could fly

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What concept from Thomas Robert Malthus influenced Darwin's theory?

• Quantum physics

• Religious beliefs

• Demographic studies on population growth and food supply

• Economic theories

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What does natural selection favor according to Darwin?

• The most intelligent species

• The strongest individual

• The individual best adapted to its environment

• The largest animal

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What did Darwin conclude about the origin of species?

• Species were a result of periodic divine intervention

• Species descended from a common ancestor

• All species were created independently

• Species were static and unchanging

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How long did Darwin refine his ideas before publishing them?

• 20 years

• 10 years

• 5 years

• 15 years

What triggered Darwin to finally publish his theory?

• He perfected the theory

• He wanted fame

• He received a challenging letter from Alfred Russel Wallace

• He was encouraged by his family