Biology Chapter: Evolution and Natural Selection

Questions and Answers

What is organic evolution primarily defined as?

The total of adaptive changes from pre-existing forms over time. (correct)

The random occurrence of genetic mutations.

A sudden change in species within a short time period.

The deliberate modification of organisms by humans.

Which of the following is NOT a feature that supports evidence of evolution?

Comparative anatomy

Genetic engineering (correct)

Geographical distribution

Fossil records

What does the law of use and disuse, proposed by Lamar, suggest?

Environmental factors have no impact on organisms.

All traits are inherited directly from ancestors.

Organisms do not change over time.

Traits not used become less developed, while useful ones are enhanced. (correct)

How do fossil records contribute to the understanding of evolution?

They allow scientists to arrange species according to their age. Signup and view all the answers

Which anatomical feature illustrates evolutionary changes in vertebrates?

The structure of the heart Signup and view all the answers

In geographical distribution, what phenomenon is commonly observed among similar organisms?

They show variations in structure based on climate. Signup and view all the answers

Besides natural selection, what is another occurrence that may lead to evolution?

Isolated breeding within populations Signup and view all the answers

What ultimately happens to species as a result of organic evolution?

They adapt and change over time from their ancestors. Signup and view all the answers

What does geographical distribution evidence suggest about living organisms?

Organisms show variations related to climate differences. Signup and view all the answers

Which anatomical feature of vertebrates illustrates evolutionary change?

Structure of the heart. Signup and view all the answers

How does the heart structure change from fish to mammals?

Changes from one auricle and one ventricle to two auricles and two ventricles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the evolutionary trend observed in the heart structure of amphibians compared to fish?

Two auricles and one ventricle. Signup and view all the answers

What change occurs in blood circulation as vertebrates evolve?

Changes from single to double circulation. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about evolutionary similarities among vertebrates is correct?

Vertebrates show variations in heart anatomy reflecting evolution. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Objectives

Discuss evolution through natural selection.
Understand various evidences supporting evolution.

Evidence From Geographical Distribution

Organisms exhibit variations in form and function due to climate differences.
Similar climates yield dissimilar organisms over time, suggesting adaptation and isolation.

Evidence From Comparative Anatomy

Anatomical features in vertebrates indicate evolutionary changes.
Structural evolution of the heart across vertebrates:
- Fish: one auricle, one ventricle.
- Amphibians: two auricles, one ventricle.
- Reptiles: two auricles, partially divided ventricle.
- Birds and mammals: two auricles, two ventricles, signifying a shift from single to double circulation.

Definition of Organic Evolution

Organic evolution encompasses adaptive changes from ancestral forms over extended periods, leading to diverse species.
All organisms originated from pre-existing life forms, evolving gradually into their current states.

Evidence of Evolution

Fossil Records: Fossils indicate past life forms, with radio-isotope dating revealing their ages. Trends show evolution from simple to complex organisms.
Geographical Distribution: Organisms in similar climates demonstrate variations over generations, with closely related species differing slightly in structure and function.
Comparative Anatomy: Evolutionary adaptations in anatomical features, particularly in the vertebrate heart, support the theory of evolution through comparative studies.

Description

This quiz explores the concepts of evolution through natural selection and the various forms of evidence supporting evolutionary theory. Focused on geographical distribution and comparative anatomy, it highlights how species adapt and evolve over time. Test your understanding of organic evolution and its implications for life on Earth.