Scientific Theories and Evidence for Evolution

The video tutorial discusses evidence for evolutionary theory, starting with a definition of evolution as change over time. It explains the difference between scientific theories and laws, using gravity as an example. The video then explores various pieces of evidence for evolution, including embryology, fossils, homologous and analogous structures, vestigial organs, and DNA evidence. Each section provides examples and explanations of how these elements support the theory of evolution.

What is the primary difference between a scientific law and a theory?

• A law explains why something happens, while a theory describes what happens.

• A law describes an observed event, while a theory explains the underlying reasons.

• A theory is more reliable than a law.

• A theory is a guess, while a law is a proven fact.

Which of the following is an example of a scientific theory?

• Law of gravity

• Natural selection

• Photosynthesis

• Newton's first law

How does embryology provide evidence for evolution?

• By proving that all embryos develop into the same species.

• By indicating that embryos do not change over time.

• By showing that embryos of different species look completely different.

• By demonstrating that embryos of different species have similar early development stages.

What can fossils tell us about the history of life on Earth?

• They provide evidence of species that have gone extinct.

• They show that all species have always existed.

• They indicate that all organisms were once aquatic.

• They prove that sedimentary rocks are the oldest.

Why are sedimentary rocks important in studying fossils?

• They are the youngest type of rock.

• They are the only type of rock found on Earth.

• They preserve fossils better than other rock types.

• They are formed under high heat and pressure.

What are homologous structures?

• Structures that have the same function but different origins.

• Structures that are similar due to common ancestry.

• Structures that no longer serve a function.

• Structures that are identical in all organisms.

Which of the following is an example of an analogous structure?

• Bat wing and butterfly wing

• Human arm and whale flipper

• Dog leg and cat leg

• Human appendix and whale hip bone

What are vestigial organs?

• Organs that have evolved to serve a new function.

• Organs that are no longer needed or functional.

• Organs that are identical in all species.

• Organs that are only found in extinct species.

How does DNA evidence support the theory of evolution?

• Species that are closely related share more DNA similarities.

• All organisms have completely different DNA structures.

• DNA is unique to each individual organism.

• DNA does not change over time.

Which of the following pairs of species would likely share the most DNA in common?

• Chimpanzee and human

• Fish and bird

• Dog and cat

• Human and banana