Tool Manufacturing and Evolution

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Questions and Answers

What is the term for alternative forms of a gene at the same locus?

Gene

Locus

Homozygous

Allele (correct)

How many pairs of chromosomes do human somatic cells contain?

23 (correct)

What is the phenotype expressed by a recessive allele?

Not expressed in either condition

Expressed in homozygotes only (correct)

Expressed in males only

Expressed in heterozygotes and homozygotes

In the context of PKU, what is required for an individual to exhibit the disorder?

Two copies of the gene from each parent Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about the warrior gene?

It regulates the metabolism of neurotransmitters Signup and view all the answers

What is the effect of polygenic inheritance on traits?

Involves many genes influencing a single trait Signup and view all the answers

What misconception is present in perceptions associated with the Muller-Lyer illusion?

Both lines are different lengths Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is observed in the Dictator Game regarding cultural differences?

Higher donations are seen in hunter-gatherer societies Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following animals is known for manufacturing tools according to the provided content?

New Caledonian crows Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the process of natural selection?

Mutation creates variation Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between genotype and phenotype?

Genotype refers to DNA, while phenotype refers to observable traits Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for natural selection?

Adaptation Signup and view all the answers

What type of intelligence is specific to a particular domain?

Domain-specific Signup and view all the answers

What observed behavior indicated that Nim Chimpsky might not fully grasp language structure?

He learned multiple isolated symbols Signup and view all the answers

What chromosomes are responsible for determining sex?

23rd pair of chromosomes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about convergent evolution is true?

It refers to the evolution of similar structures from different ancestors Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Tool Manufacturing

Previously, humans were considered the only tool-makers; primates also utilize tools like hammers and fishing spears.
New Caledonian crows create two types of tools: one involves sticks with hooks for insect extraction, the other uses pandanus leaves.

Convergent Evolution

Represents independent evolution of similar traits in different species due to natural selection favoring similar adaptations.

Natural Selection Requirements

Variation in traits exists among individuals.
Traits must be heritable for future generations.
Some variants are better suited for survival than others.
Competition for limited resources leads to the survival of advantageous traits.

Process of Natural Selection

Mutation introduces genetic variation.
Unfavorable mutations are eliminated.
Reproduction and mutation continue to create variation.
Favorable mutations have higher survival rates, leading to their propagation in subsequent generations.

Nim Chimpsky

Demonstrates attempts at language acquisition in apes.
Apes can learn isolated symbols but lack mastery of complex language structure (syntax and semantics).

Types of Intelligence

Domain-specific intelligence: Tailored to specific tasks.
Domain general intelligence: Applicable across various contexts.

Basic Terminology

Genotype: Set of inherited DNA responsible for traits.
Phenotype: Observable characteristics resulting from the genotype.
DNA: Contains genetic information in cells' nuclei, structured in 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Chromosome: Thread-like structures in the nucleus; each is a DNA molecule.
Gene: Segment of DNA coding for specific proteins.
Allele: Variations of a gene at the same position.
Locus: Location of a gene on a chromosome.
Homozygous: Two identical alleles for a trait.
Heterozygous: Two different alleles for a trait.
Dominant: Allele that expresses its effect in both homozygous and heterozygous states.
Recessive: Allele that is expressed only in homozygous conditions.
Polygenic inheritance: Traits influenced by multiple genes, common in psychological traits.

Genetic Inheritance and PKU

PKU is a metabolic disorder linked to a recessive gene on chromosome 12, leading to intellectual disabilities.
Manifestation of PKU requires two copies of the gene from both parents; produces high levels of phenylketones in urine.

Genes and Aggression

The "warrior gene" on the X chromosome affects Monoamine oxidase A production, linked to neurotransmitter metabolism.
Inadequate metabolism of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine correlates with heightened aggression, particularly among maltreated children.

Dictator Game

A social-economic experiment where one player decides how much to share from a sum of money with another player.
Cultural differences in generosity reveal variations, e.g., Americans donate 47% on average, while African hunter-gatherers like the Hadza donate approximately 25%.

Muller-Lyer Illusion

An optical illusion where two lines appear different in length despite being equal; highlights how perception of length varies culturally.

Psychology’s Population Bias

A 2008 survey revealed that 96% of subjects in top psychology journals were from Western industrialized countries, indicating a potential research bias.

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Description

Explore the fascinating world of tool manufacturing in animals, particularly focusing on primates and New Caledonian crows. This quiz delves into the concept of convergent evolution, where different species evolve similar traits independently. Test your knowledge about these remarkable behaviors and discoveries in the animal kingdom.