Prehistoric Man Human Evolution - The Human Family Tree

The video explores the human evolutionary tree, focusing on phylogeny and the discovery of key fossils like Kenyanthropus platyops and Australopithecus afarensis, including the famous Lucy. It highlights the significance of bipedality, evidenced by the Laetoli footprints, and discusses various theories on why humans evolved to walk upright.

What is a phylogeny in the context of human evolution?

• A tool used for dating ancient artifacts

• A fossil of the common ancestor of apes and humans

• A diagram showing the evolutionary relationships among species

• A method for classifying living organisms

What was significant about the discovery of Kenyanthropus platyops?

• It was the oldest known hominid fossil

• It showed early hominid diversity

• It was the first hominid to use tools

• It was the first hominid to walk upright

Why is Lucy considered an important fossil in human evolution?

• She was the oldest known hominid fossil

• She was the first hominid to migrate out of Africa

• Her skeleton was nearly complete

• She was the first hominid to use fire

What evidence supports the idea that Australopithecus afarensis walked upright?

• The discovery of stone tools

• The presence of a tail for balance

• Footprints with a well-developed arch and aligned big toe

• The use of fire for cooking

What anatomical feature is a clear indicator of bipedality in early hominids?

• A large brain size

• A missing ridge of bone in the upper-arm

• Opposable thumbs

• A long tail for balance

Why is walking upright considered a significant achievement in human evolution?

• It allowed humans to fly

• It enabled humans to swim faster

• It distinguished early humans from their closest relatives

• It was the first form of locomotion

Which theory suggests that bipedality evolved for thermoregulation?

• It enabled faster running speeds

• It allowed for better hunting techniques

• It freed the hands for tool use

• It reduced body heating in the tropical sun

What is unique about human locomotion development compared to other species?

• Humans never crawl

• Humans develop a two-stage locomotion process

• Humans are born walking

• Humans use their tails for balance

What is one reason why bipedality might have evolved according to Darwin?

• To improve swimming abilities

• To increase brain size

• To free the hands for tool use

• To enhance vocal communication

What is a potential advantage of bipedality in tropical environments?

• Increased speed

• Better camouflage

• Improved thermal regulation

• Enhanced night vision