Evolution and Darwin-Wallace Theory
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Which of the following best describes the core concept of evolution?

  • The development of new organs within an organism to meet specific environmental demands.
  • The immediate adaptation of an individual to a sudden environmental change.
  • The gradual change in the genetic composition of a population over successive generations. (correct)
  • The unchanging genetic makeup of a population across generations.

Lamarck's theory of evolution, although ultimately disproven, suggested what primary mechanism for evolutionary change?

  • The inheritance of traits acquired during an organism's lifetime. (correct)
  • Natural selection favoring the survival of the fittest.
  • The isolation of populations leading to reproductive divergence.
  • Random genetic mutations leading to new traits.

How does Darwin-Wallace's theory of evolution differ most significantly from Lamarck's theory?

  • Darwin-Wallace focused on the role of environmental influence, whereas Lamarck emphasized genetic inheritance.
  • Darwin-Wallace believed evolution leads to decreased biodiversity, while Lamarck thought it increased diversity.
  • Darwin-Wallace proposed evolution occurs through natural selection, while Lamarck suggested inheritance of acquired traits. (correct)
  • Darwin-Wallace's theory applies only to animals, while Lamarck's theory applies only to plants.

Which of the following scenarios best illustrates natural selection, as proposed by Darwin and Wallace?

<p>A species of bird developing larger beaks over generations in response to a diet of harder seeds. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical difference between a phenotype and a genotype with respect to acquired traits?

<p>Acquired traits affect the phenotype but do not change the genotype. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a population of insects is exposed to a new pesticide, which of the following outcomes would be most consistent with Darwin-Wallace's theory of natural selection?

<p>Insects that already possess a genetic mutation conferring resistance will survive and reproduce, increasing the frequency of resistant insects in subsequent generations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately contrasts Lamarck's and Darwin-Wallace's explanations for how a giraffe might have developed its long neck?

<p>Lamarck would suggest giraffes stretched their necks during their lives and passed this trait to offspring; Darwin-Wallace would say giraffes with longer necks survived better and reproduced more. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine a population of fish living in a dimly lit cave. Over many generations, their eyesight weakens, and they develop heightened senses of smell and touch. Which explanation aligns with the modern understanding of evolution?

<p>Fish with better senses of smell and touch were better able to survive and reproduce in the cave environment, gradually leading to a population with reduced eyesight and enhanced non-visual senses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During embryonic development, at what stage do vertebrate embryos begin to show significant differences, diverging from their early similarities?

<p>In later stages of development (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the similarity in early embryonic development among different species suggest about their evolutionary history?

<p>They share a recent common ancestor. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is cytochrome c commonly used in comparative biochemistry to study evolutionary relationships?

<p>It is conserved across many species and vital for cellular respiration. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do similarities in biochemical pathways among different species support the theory of evolution?

<p>They imply inheritance from a common ancestor. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the significance of ATP in the context of comparative biochemistry and evolution?

<p>It is the universal energy currency used by all known living organisms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are mice and rabbits often used in testing new medicines intended for human use?

<p>They share highly similar biochemical pathways with humans. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason molecular biology is considered compelling evidence for the theory of evolution?

<p>It shows the universality of DNA and similarities in genetic sequences across different species. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does molecular biology contribute to our understanding of evolutionary relationships between species?

<p>By comparing DNA, RNA, and protein sequences to reveal similarities and differences. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the presence of the same genetic code for amino acids in nearly all organisms suggest?

<p>A shared common ancestry. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of comparing DNA sequences to determine evolutionary relationships?

<p>It reveals the degree of genetic similarity, indicating how closely related species are. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the theory of continental drift support the concept of evolution?

<p>It accounts for the distribution of similar species on different continents. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What evolutionary process is most directly associated with the separation of Pangaea into multiple continents?

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

What does biogeography reveal about the evolutionary history of species?

<p>Patterns of species distribution that reflect both common ancestry and adaptation to new environments (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the distribution of unique species, such as kangaroos in Australia, provide evidence for evolution?

<p>It supports the idea that species evolve in isolation due to geographic barriers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept explains the diversification of an ancestral species into many new forms, each adapted to a specific ecological niche, following a major environmental change or opportunity?

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

Which of the following statements accurately reflects the contribution of both Darwin and Wallace to the theory of evolution?

<p>Darwin and Wallace jointly published a paper on natural selection, after which Darwin further elaborated on the theory in 'Origin of Species'. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the principles of natural selection, what is the most accurate interpretation of how it affects populations?

<p>Natural selection acts on individual organisms, and a population evolves as the proportion of individuals with favorable traits increases. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the relationship between individual organisms and the process of evolution?

<p>Individuals do not evolve; rather, populations evolve over generations as genetic frequencies change. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the modern synthesis theory differ from Darwin's original theory of evolution?

<p>The modern synthesis combines Darwin's theory of evolution with Mendelian genetics and recognizes multiple mechanisms of evolution. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the modern synthesis theory, how are characteristics passed from parents to offspring, and what role does this play in variation?

<p>Characteristics are passed down via genes, and multiple alleles of a gene contribute to variation among individuals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The accumulation of which of the following is believed to most likely cause speciation, according to the modern synthesis theory?

<p>Gradual accumulation of small genetic mutations over time. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario accurately describes the concept of 'evolution' in a biological context?

<p>A population of insects developing resistance to a pesticide over several generations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines a 'species' in biological terms?

<p>A group of organisms that share similar characteristics and can interbreed to produce fertile offspring. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes how fossil records provide evidence for evolution?

<p>By showcasing a chronological succession of organisms and gradual changes in their structures over millions of years. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What information can potassium-argon dating provide that carbon dating cannot?

<p>The age of fossils up to 3,000 million years old. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the study of comparative anatomy contribute to our understanding of evolution?

<p>By examining the structural similarities and differences among different species. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of homologous structures in the study of evolution?

<p>They suggest that organisms with similar structures evolved from a common ancestor, even if the structures have different functions. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios describes convergent evolution?

<p>The flippers of dolphins and the fins of sharks, which serve the same function but evolved independently. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do vestigial structures provide evidence for evolution?

<p>They indicate common ancestry by showing remnants of organs or structures that were functional in ancestral species but have lost their original purpose. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does comparative embryology reveal about the evolutionary relationships among organisms?

<p>It demonstrates that closely-related organisms go through similar stages in their embryonic development. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Evolution

Gradual genetic change in populations over generations.

Lamarckism

Theory proposing inheritance of acquired traits through use and disuse.

Acquired Traits

Characteristics influenced by the environment but not genetically inherited.

Natural Selection

Process where organisms better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce.

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Darwin-Wallace Theory

Evolution occurs via gradual changes and natural selection from pre-existing species.

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Disuse

Concept where unused body parts weaken or disappear over generations.

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Genotype vs. Phenotype

Genotype is genetic makeup, phenotype is physical expression influenced by environment.

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Charles Darwin

Naturalist who formulated the theory of evolution through natural selection.

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Species

Group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

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Modern Synthesis Theory

Combination of Darwin's theory of evolution and Mendel's laws of inheritance.

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Fossil Records

Remains of ancient organisms preserved in geological deposits.

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Fossilization

Process by which organic remains are preserved over time.

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Potassium-Argon Dating

Method used to date fossils up to 3000 million years old.

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Comparative Anatomy

Study of anatomical features to understand evolutionary relationships.

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Homologous Structures

Similar structures in different species from a common ancestor.

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Analogous Structures

Unrelated species' organs with similar functions due to environmental adaptation.

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Vestigial Structures

Reduced organs that were functional in ancestral species.

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Divergent Evolution

Process where related species become more dissimilar.

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Convergent Evolution

Unrelated species evolve similar traits due to similar environments.

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Comparative Embryology

Study of similarities in embryonic development among related organisms.

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Speciation

Formation of new and distinct species through evolutionary processes.

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Common Ancestry

Concept that different species share a common ancestor based on evolutionary evidence.

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Gill Slits in Embryos

Temporary features present in human embryos resembling fish, indicating evolutionary ties.

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Comparative Biochemistry

Study of biochemical processes across different organisms to trace evolution.

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Biochemical Pathways

Interconnected chemical reactions in organisms that regulate life functions.

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Cytochrome C

A protein involved in cellular respiration, used to compare evolutionary relationships.

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ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the universal energy currency in living cells.

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Molecular Biology

Field of biology that studies the molecular basis of biological activity in cells.

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DNA Similarity

Organisms that are genetically similar have comparable DNA sequences.

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Biogeography

Study of the geographic distribution of organisms and its evolutionary implications.

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Pangaea

Theoretical supercontinent that existed about 200 million years ago.

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Adaptive Radiation

Process where species rapidly diversify from a common ancestor to adapt to different environments.

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Mutations in Evolution

Changes in DNA that drive evolution by creating genetic variation.

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Conserved Biochemical Processes

Biochemical pathways that remain similar across species, indicating common ancestry.

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Genetic Variations

Differences in DNA among individuals that can lead to evolution and adaptations.

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Study Notes

Defining Evolution

  • Evolution is the gradual change in a population's genetic makeup across generations.
  • Evolution explains the diversity of life, arising from ancient organisms.
  • Evolutionary changes are inheritable.
  • Evolution allows organisms to adapt to diverse environments.
  • Various scientists contributed to our understanding of evolution.

Lamarck's Theory (Lamarckism)

  • Lamarck (1809) proposed evolution through the inheritance of acquired characteristics.
  • Organisms adapt by modifying body parts based on use or disuse in response to environmental changes.
  • These modifications are then passed on to offspring.
  • Lamarck's theory lacked supporting evidence and is now largely considered incorrect.
  • Acquired traits, like dyed hair, affect phenotype but not genotype.

Darwin-Wallace's Theory

  • Darwin's theory of evolution, supported by Wallace, centers on natural selection.
  • Darwin observed variations among Galapagos and mainland organisms.
  • New species originate through gradual change from ancestral species.
  • Natural selection: Individuals better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more successfully.
  • Darwin and Wallace jointly published their ideas in 1858.
  • Darwin's "Origin of Species" followed in 1859.
  • Key concepts of Darwin-Wallace's theory:
    • Natural selection acts on individuals within a population.
    • Populations change as favorable traits increase.
    • Populations evolve, not individuals.

Modern Synthesis Theory (Neo-Darwinism)

  • This combines Darwin's theory with Mendel's genetics.
  • It replaced non-Darwinian theories.
  • It recognizes multiple evolutionary mechanisms: natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, mutation.
  • It suggests that characteristics are passed through genes.
  • Variations arise from multiple alleles of a gene.
  • Speciation results from gradual gene-level changes.

Terms

  • Evolution: Change in a species over time, or change in allelic frequency in a species population.
  • Species: A group of organisms with shared traits, capable of interbreeding.

Fossil Records/Paleontology

  • Fossils are preserved remains of past life.
  • Paleontology studies fossils.
  • Fossil records show a sequence of life, gradual change, new species, and common ancestry.
  • Fossils are rarely preserved.
  • Potassium-argon dating dates older fossils.
  • Carbon-dating measures radioactive carbon.

Comparative Anatomy

  • Homologous structures: similar structures (bones) that perform different functions. Evidence of common ancestry.
  • Analogous structures: structures with the same function, but different underlying structure. Evidence of convergent evolution.
  • Vestigial structures: structures that have lost their original function, remnants of evolutionary history.

Comparative Embryology

  • Early vertebrate embryos are similar.
  • Similarities in embryonic development show common ancestry.
  • Differences arise later in development, reflecting adaptations.

Comparative Biochemistry

  • Organisms have similar biochemical pathways (e.g., respiration).
  • Closely related organisms share similar biochemical pathways more closely.
  • DNA homology (similar DNA sequences) is strong evidence of relatedness
  • Amino acid sequences in proteins reflect evolutionary relationships.
  • Biochemical pathways aid in tracing evolutionary changes

Molecular Biology

  • All life shares common molecular machinery (DNA/RNA).
  • Similar DNA/RNA sequences in closely related organisms.
  • Molecular biology explores evolution from a molecular and cellular view.
  • Mutations drive evolutionary changes.

Biogeography

  • Species distribution reflects evolution and continental drift.
  • Pangaea was a single supercontinent that split.
  • Similar fossils and species distributions support continental drift theory.
  • Adaptive radiation: diversification after geographic separation.

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Explore the concepts of evolution, Lamarckism, and Darwin-Wallace's theory. Understand how species adapt and the contributions of various scientists to our understanding of evolution. Learn about genetic changes and the development of new species over time.

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