Biology Quiz: Evolution and Cell Theory

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of a scientific theory?

  • It has been rigorously tested and confirmed.
  • It aids in the generation of new hypotheses.
  • It is a guess or untested speculation. (correct)
  • It is a well-supported explanation based on extensive evidence.

Based on the cell theory, which of the following statements is true?

  • All cells are multicellular.
  • All cells have the same structure and function.
  • All cells are capable of independent life.
  • All cells arise from pre-existing cells. (correct)

What is the significance of the concept of 'descent from a common ancestor' in the theory of evolution by natural selection?

  • It suggests that all species evolved independently from each other.
  • It implies that all species share a common ancestor, linking them through evolutionary history. (correct)
  • It proves that evolution is a random process with no directionality.
  • It explains why there is such a wide diversity of life on Earth.

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between natural selection and evolution?

<p>Natural selection is one of many mechanisms that contribute to evolution. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The modern cell theory states that cells contain hereditary information in what form?

<p>DNA and RNA (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the content, how are the two unifying concepts of Biology - Theory of Evolution and Cell Theory - connected?

<p>Both theories are based on the idea that all living things are interconnected and share a common ancestry. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is the primary difference between the everyday use of the word 'theory' and its scientific use?

<p>In everyday use, a theory is a guess or speculation, while in science, it is a well-supported explanation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST describes the relationship between cells and evolution?

<p>Cells are the fundamental units of life, and evolution is the process by which they have changed and diversified over time. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a factor that contributes to natural selection?

<p>Increased intelligence within a population (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is the smallest unit that can evolve over time?

<p>Population (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the observable characteristics of an individual organism?

<p>Phenotype (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the analogy of "climbing Mount Improbable" represent in the context of evolution?

<p>The gradual accumulation of changes leading to major evolutionary transitions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase "Natural selection acts "sees" phenotype" imply about the process of evolution?

<p>Natural selection favors traits that make an organism better adapted to its environment. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these illustrates the concept of macroevolution?

<p>The evolution of whales from land-dwelling ancestors over millions of years. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main takeaway from the information about the vastness of evolutionary time?

<p>Small changes over long periods can result in significant evolutionary changes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Darwin's quote, "It is not the strongest of the species that survives..." emphasizes what key principle of evolution?

<p>Adaptability to change (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What are the four classes of biological macromolecules that make up living things?

<p>Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, and Nucleic Acids (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?

<p>Prokaryotes do not have internal compartments and eukaryotes do. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What process resulted in the formation of the first eukaryotic cells?

<p>Endosymbiogenesis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of RNA in the RNA world hypothesis?

<p>RNA acts as both a carrier of genetic information and an enzyme. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of protocells in the evolution of life?

<p>Protocells are the first self-organized structures that exhibit some properties of life. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key process that evolved during the 2.1 billion years that prokaryotes were the only life forms on Earth?

<p>Multicellularity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about abiogenesis is TRUE?

<p>Abiogenesis is the process by which the first living cells arose from non-living matter. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main idea of the RNA world hypothesis?

<p>RNA was the original genetic material in the earliest forms of life. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a basic feature of all cells?

<p>Nucleus (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A strand of human hair is approximately how many micrometers in diameter?

<p>2 - 180 μm (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the length of a C-H bond in methane, expressed in Angstroms?

<p>1 Ǻ (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the size of cells is TRUE?

<p>Cells are microscopic and require special tools to be observed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a unifying principle in biology?

<p>Cell theory (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What unit of measure is commonly used to represent the size of atoms?

<p>Angstrom (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the size of a cell and its function?

<p>Cell size is often correlated with its function, with specialized cells having tailored sizes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason why studying cells is crucial?

<p>Understanding the origin of the universe (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary evidence for common ancestry among different organisms?

<p>Homology (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a category of evidence for Darwinian evolution?

<p>Genetic drift (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the universal genetic code?

<p>It supports the idea of a common ancestor for all living organisms. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main mechanism driving the evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria?

<p>Natural selection (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between microevolution and macroevolution?

<p>Microevolution is a subset of macroevolution, focusing on smaller changes within a species. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of homology?

<p>The arm of a human and the wing of a bat (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the term 'convergent evolution'?

<p>Different species evolving similar traits due to similar environmental pressures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does biogeography provide evidence for evolution?

<p>It shows that species are distributed across the globe in patterns that reflect their evolutionary history. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST describes the role of endosymbiogenesis in the evolution of eukaryotes?

<p>Endosymbiogenesis provided a mechanism for the development of new organelles within eukaryotes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a direct consequence of multicellularity?

<p>Development of a nucleus in cells. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the CORRECT order of major events in the evolution of cells, from earliest to most recent?

<p>Abiogenesis, RNA world, protocells, prokaryotes, endosymbiogenesis, eukaryotes, multicellularity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Cambrian Explosion in the context of multicellularity?

<p>It saw a rapid diversification of multicellular life forms. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of evolution, what is the most likely explanation for the multiple independent origins of multicellularity?

<p>Multicellularity provides a significant selective advantage in various environments. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why the development of sexual reproduction was a significant evolutionary event?

<p>It allowed for greater genetic diversity within a population. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the content, why is multicellularity considered a 'crude elaboration' compared to the eukaryotic cell?

<p>Multicellularity is a less efficient way of achieving a complex structure compared to specialized eukaryotic cells. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection

A unifying theory explaining how species evolve through heritable traits that provide reproductive advantages.

Cell Theory

A fundamental concept in biology stating that all living organisms are composed of cells.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with favorable traits reproduce more successfully than others.

Modern Cell Theory

An expansion of cell theory, including principles like cells being the smallest unit of life and all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

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Heritable Traits

Characteristics that are passed from parent to offspring, playing a crucial role in evolution.

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Homeostasis

The ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions despite external changes.

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Common Ancestor

A species from which different species have evolved, emphasizing the connections between species.

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DNA and RNA

Molecules that carry genetic information and are essential for heredity and cellular functions.

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Basic features of cells

All cells share four basic features: plasma membrane, cytosol, genetic material, and ribosomes.

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Cell metabolism

Cell metabolism refers to chemical pathways that convert energy into biochemical work.

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Micrometer (μm)

A micrometer is one millionth of a meter, commonly used to measure small objects like cells.

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Nanometer (nm)

A nanometer is one billionth of a meter, often used in biology to measure wavelengths of light.

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Angstrom (Ǻ)

An angstrom is ten billionths of a meter, used to measure atomic sizes and bond lengths.

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Importance of studying cells

Studying cells helps understand organism functionality, health, and disease treatment.

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Role of evolution in biology

Evolution is a key theme that explains the diversity and complexity of life and connects biological concepts.

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Adaptability

The ability of an organism to adjust to changes in its environment.

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Population

The smallest group that can evolve, consisting of individuals of the same species.

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Selective Force

An environmental factor that affects which individuals survive and reproduce.

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Phenotype

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism, resulting from genotype and environment.

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Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual organism; the inherited information.

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Darwinian Evolution

The process of evolution driven by natural selection acting on the phenotype within changing environments.

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Macroevolution

Large evolutionary changes that result from the accumulation of microevolutionary changes over time.

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Descent with Modification

The principle that organisms evolve from common ancestors with changes over time.

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Homology

Similarity in traits due to shared ancestry.

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Natural Selection in Action

Observation of how favorable traits become more common through survival and reproduction.

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Convergent Evolution

The process where unrelated species independently evolve similar traits.

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Biogeography

The study of the geographic distribution of species and ecosystems.

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Universal Genetic Code

The DNA code that is the same across all living organisms, indicating a common ancestry.

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Abiogenesis

The process by which life arises naturally from non-living matter under prebiotic conditions.

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Protocells

Simple, membrane-bound structures that may have provided the conditions necessary for the first forms of life.

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RNA World

The hypothesis that RNA was the first molecule to store genetic information and support life.

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Prokaryotes

Single-celled organisms without a nucleus or organelles, existing for 2.1 billion years.

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Endosymbiogenesis

The process by which certain prokaryotic cells became incorporated into larger cells, leading to the formation of eukaryotes.

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Eukaryotes

Complex cells that contain a nucleus and organelles, evolved from prokaryotes.

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Multicellularity

The condition of being composed of multiple cells, allowing for specialization and complexity.

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Biomolecules

Four classes of biological macromolecules crucial for life: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

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Advantages of Multicellularity

Includes improved size, protection, division of labor, and increased complexity.

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Study Notes

Biology 1 - Cells, Molecular Biology, and Genetics (Biol 1000)

  • Course offered by Dr. Michael Cardinal-Aucoin in Winter 2025 at York University.
  • Course code is Biol 1000

Evolution

  • Major unifying theories in biology
  • Darwinian evolution, including natural selection
  • Evidence and examples of these theories

Unifying Concepts of Biology

  • Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection
  • Cell Theory
  • Genetics
  • Homeostasis

Theories

  • In everyday use, "theory" implies a guess.
  • In science, a theory is a broad explanation supported by many lines of evidence, essential for generating new hypotheses, and withstands rigorous testing.

Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection

  • Populations change over time (pattern).
  • Individuals with heritable traits produce more offspring than others without those traits (mechanism).
  • All species are related by descent from a common ancestor.
  • All species originate from pre-existing species.

Cell Theory

  • All organisms are made of cells (pattern).
  • All cells come from pre-existing cells (mechanism).
  • All single-cell organisms in a population are related to a common ancestor.
  • All cells in a multicellular organism descend from an ancestral cell.

Modern Cell Theory

  • A cell is the smallest self-reproducing unit of life.
  • Cells make up all living things.
  • New cells arise from pre-existing cells.
  • Overall organism activity depends on the total activity of independent cells within it.
  • Energy flow (metabolism and biochemistry) occurs within cells.
  • Cells contain the hereditary information (DNA and RNA).
  • Cells from similar organisms share similar chemical composition.

Units of Measure

  • Micrometer (µm): 1,000,000 µm = 1 meter. A strand of hair is ~20-180 µm in diameter.
  • Nanometer (nm): 1,000,000,000 nm = 1 meter. The wavelength of visible light is 400-700nm.
  • Angstrom (Ã…): 10,000,000,000 Ã… = 1 meter. Used to measure atoms and bond lengths (e.g., C-H bond in methane is ~1 Angstrom).

Introduction to the Cell

  • The human body has approximately 37 trillion cells.
  • Cells vary greatly in size, from atoms to large organisms (e.g. eggs).

Why Study Cells?

  • Cells are the fundamental functional units of all living things.
  • Cell theory is a unifying principle in biology.
  • Understanding cells allows understanding of how organisms (plants, animals, parasites, fungi, etc.) function.
  • Cell knowledge is critical to human health and disease treatment.

Evolution by Natural Selection

  • Individuals in a population differ.
  • These differences, or traits, are heritable (passed from parent to offspring)
  • Some individuals leave more offspring than others due to their traits.

Evolution

  • It's not the strongest or most intelligent that survives, but the one most adaptable to change.
  • Other mechanisms for driving evolution: artificial selection, sexual selection, genetic drift, and gene flow.

Natural Selection Acts

  • Individuals in a population differ
  • Traits are heritable
  • And result in differential survival and reproduction

Different Cell Types

  • 4 basic cell features: Plasma membrane, cytosol, genetic material, and ribosomes.

Evolution - Evidence

  • Homology.
  • Universal genetic code.
  • Fossil record.
  • Genomics.
  • Insecticide resistance.
  • Biogeography.
  • Genetics, Microevolution.
  • Vestigial Structures.
  • Comparative anatomy and physiology, Embryology and Comparative biochemistry

Homology (Vestigial Genetic/Molecular)

  • Icefish lack hemoglobin, but possess some hemoglobin gene parts from their ancestors.
  • Human chromosome 2 is believed to be the result of a fusion of two ancestral chromosomes.

Convergent Evolution

  • When characters are similar but are not derived from a common ancestor (analogous).
  • Analogous features demonstrate that organisms with separate ancestors can adapt to similar environments.
  • E.g., wings of birds, bats, and bees.
  • Independent evolution of similar structures, usually superficially similar.

Biogeography

  • Species distributions can be explained by their evolution.
  • Species tend to be more closely related to other species from the same area.
  • Suggests a common ancestor adapting to nearby habitats.
  • Combine with geology.
  • Breakup of Pangea (plate tectonics) has stranded most marsupials in Australia.
  • Placental mammals evolved after split and could not reach Australia until more recently.

Fossil Record

  • Oldest fossils are from around 4 bya (cyanobacteria).
  • Oldest fossils as far back as Precambrian (e.g., cyanobacteria), including cyanobacteria-like fossils.
  • Cyanobacteria is larger than most bacteria and may secrete a thicker cell wall.
  • Often form large layered structures called stromatolites (dome-shaped) or oncolites (round).
  • First single cell eukaryotes are around 1.8 bya.
  • Multicellularity took place around 1.8 billion years ago.
  • Plants, animals, fungi, brown algae, etc. evolved via multiple, independent origins.

How Evolution Is Relevant to Cell Biology

  • Explain how cells evolved, and their history.
  • Diversity of cells and their common features.
  • Structure and function of cells.
  • Adaptations to different environments and circumstances.

Main Events(in timeline) -Evolution of Cells

  • Abiogenesis
  • Protocells
  • RNA world
  • Prokaryotes
  • Endosymbiosis
  • Eukaryotes
  • Multicellularity

Eukaryotes

  • Characteristics include compartmentalization and membrane-bound organelles, and cellular trafficking (endomembrane system).
  • Eukaryotes are more complex and larger than prokaryotes.
  • They have true multicellularity and mitosis/meiosis for genetic diversity and reproduction

Multicellularity

  • First multicellular organisms arose about 2.7 bya.
  • Multicellularity took off around 1 bya, just before the Cambrian Explosion.
  • It provided a significant selective advantage.
  • Advantages include increased size, competition for food, protection from predators, division of labor, increased complexity (SA:V),

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