Multiple Choice Questions On Evolution - NEET MCQ

Two species occupying same or overlapping geographical areas are called as sympatric species.
The species occupying distinct geographical areas are called as allopatric species. 

So, the correct answer is 'sympatric species'

The presence of gill slits in the embryo of all vertebrates supports the theory of Recapitulation.
Recapitulation:
- Recapitulation is the theory that suggests that the development of an individual organism goes through stages that resemble the evolutionary history of the species.
- It is also known as the "ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny" theory.
- According to this theory, the embryonic development of an organism mirrors the evolutionary history of its species.
- In other words, the stages of development in an embryo reflect the ancestral forms of the species.
Supporting Evidence:
- The presence of gill slits in the embryo of all vertebrates is considered evidence for the theory of recapitulation.
- Gill slits are found in the embryos of all vertebrates, including humans, during early development.
- These gill slits are similar to the gill slits present in the embryos of fish, which are the ancestors of all vertebrates.
- This similarity suggests that the development of gill slits in the embryo mirrors the evolutionary history of vertebrates, where gills were present in the ancestors.
- As the embryo develops further, these gill slits either disappear or transform into other structures, depending on the species.
Conclusion:
- The presence of gill slits in the embryo of all vertebrates supports the theory of recapitulation.
- It suggests that the early stages of development in vertebrate embryos resemble the ancestral forms of the species, providing evidence for the evolutionary history of vertebrates.

Explanation:
Divergent evolution occurs when two or more species evolve from a common ancestor, resulting in the formation of new species. In this process, the ancestral species diverges into multiple lineages, each adapting to different environmental conditions or lifestyles. This leads to the development of distinct traits and characteristics in each lineage, eventually resulting in the formation of two or more separate species.
Key points to consider:
- Divergent evolution: The process by which two or more species evolve from a common ancestor and develop distinct traits and characteristics.
- Ancestral species: The initial species from which the divergent evolution occurs.
- Formation of new species: The end result of divergent evolution, where two or more distinct species are formed.
- Adaptation to different environments: Divergent evolution occurs when different populations of the same ancestral species adapt to different environmental conditions or lifestyles.
In this scenario, the formation of two species from one ancestral species is an example of divergent evolution. The ancestral species diverges into two separate lineages, each adapting to different environmental conditions or lifestyles, resulting in the formation of two distinct species.

Man is called a walking museum because:



A: Embryogeny of man is an example of ontogeny repeats phylogeny
- Embryogeny refers to the development of an organism from a fertilized egg to a fully formed individual.
- Ontogeny repeats phylogeny means that during embryonic development, an organism goes through stages that resemble the evolutionary history of its species.
- In the case of humans, the early stages of embryonic development show similarities to the development of other vertebrate species, reflecting our evolutionary past.



B: Around 144 vestigial organs are there in the human body
- Vestigial organs are organs that have lost their original function through evolution.
- Humans have several vestigial organs, such as the appendix, tailbone (coccyx), and wisdom teeth.
- These organs are remnants of structures that were functional in our evolutionary ancestors but are now no longer necessary.
- The presence of these vestigial organs in the human body is like having a collection of evolutionary artifacts, making us a walking museum.



C: History of mankind is well preserved and always cared for
- The history of mankind, including our cultural heritage, traditions, and achievements, is meticulously preserved and documented.
- Museums, archives, and libraries hold vast collections of artifacts, artworks, manuscripts, and historical documents that tell the story of human civilization.
- These repositories of knowledge and history serve as a reminder and testament to our past, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of our collective heritage.
- Man, being the carrier and inheritor of this rich history, can be considered a walking museum.



D: Man has shown an immense interest in knowing his past through paleontological excursions, archaeological excavations, etc.
- Humans have always been curious about their origins and the history of their species.
- Anthropologists, archaeologists, and paleontologists dedicate their lives to studying human history by conducting excavations, analyzing fossils, and interpreting ancient artifacts.
- The collective efforts of these scientists and researchers have contributed to our understanding of human evolution and the past.
- The immense interest and active involvement of humans in uncovering and learning about their past make them akin to walking museums.

Answer Explanation:

Fossil remains of Archaeopteryx indicates that:

• Archaeopteryx was a bird-like dinosaur.


• Archaeopteryx lived during the late Jurassic period, around 150 million years ago.


• Archaeopteryx had both reptilian and avian characteristics, making it a transitional fossil.


• Archaeopteryx's fossil remains show features such as feathered wings, teeth, and a long bony tail.


• These features suggest that Archaeopteryx was capable of flight but also retained some reptilian traits.


• The discovery of Archaeopteryx provided important evidence for the theory of evolution, supporting the idea that birds evolved from reptilian ancestors.

Therefore, the correct answer is C: Reptiles gave rise to birds during Jurassic.

Fossil Formation and Types of Fossils
During the process of fossil formation, various factors can influence the preservation of organisms. In some cases, the soft parts of an organism decompose, leaving behind only the hard parts. These hard parts can then be infiltrated by minerals, resulting in the formation of a specific type of fossil stone known as petrified fossils.
Explanation of the Various Types of Fossils:
- Cast: A cast fossil is formed when an organism's remains decompose and leave an empty cavity, which is later filled with minerals or sediment. This process creates a cast that replicates the shape of the original organism.
- Moulds: A mould fossil is formed when an organism's remains leave an impression or mold in the surrounding sediment or rock. This impression can then be filled with minerals or sediment, creating a replica of the organism's shape.
- Petrified: Petrified fossils, also known as petrified wood, are formed when the organic material of a plant or animal is replaced by minerals such as silica, calcite, or pyrite. The minerals gradually replace the original material, resulting in a fossilized replica that retains the structure and appearance of the organism.
- Coprolites: Coprolites are fossilized feces or dung. They are formed when the organic waste of animals is preserved and undergoes a process of mineralization.
Conclusion:
In the context of fossil formation, the type of fossil stone described in the question, where the soft parts decompose and the harder parts are infiltrated by minerals, is known as petrified fossils. These fossils are formed when the organic material is replaced by minerals, resulting in a fossilized replica of the original organism.

Allopatric speciation is due to geographical isolation.
Geographical isolation plays a crucial role in allopatric speciation. This process occurs when a population of organisms becomes physically separated by a geographical barrier, such as a mountain range, river, or ocean. Over time, this separation leads to the evolution of distinct species. Here is a detailed explanation of how geographical isolation contributes to allopatric speciation:
1. Initial separation: A population of organisms is divided into two or more isolated groups by a geographical barrier. This barrier prevents gene flow between the separated groups, meaning that individuals from one group cannot mate with individuals from another group.
2. Different environmental conditions: The isolated groups are subjected to different environmental conditions on either side of the barrier. These differences can include variations in climate, habitat, food availability, and other ecological factors.
3. Genetic divergence: As the isolated groups adapt to their respective environments, they undergo genetic changes through mutation, genetic drift, and natural selection. Over time, these genetic changes accumulate, leading to genetic divergence between the two groups.
4. Reproductive isolation: The genetic divergence between the isolated groups eventually results in reproductive barriers. This can occur due to differences in mating behaviors, reproductive structures, or genetic incompatibilities. As a result, individuals from one group are no longer able to successfully mate with individuals from the other group, even if they were to come into contact.
5. Formation of distinct species: The continued reproductive isolation and genetic divergence eventually lead to the formation of two distinct species. These species have enough genetic and phenotypic differences that they are unable to interbreed and produce viable offspring.
In conclusion, allopatric speciation is primarily driven by geographical isolation. The physical separation of populations leads to different environmental conditions and genetic divergence, ultimately resulting in reproductive isolation and the formation of distinct species.

Industrial Melanism is the phenomenon studied by Barnard. Before the industrial revolution, the dull grey forms of peppered moth- Biston betularia were dominant, the Carbonaria form (Black) was rare because it was susceptible to predation by birds. The reason was that it was conspicuously visible while resting on tree trunks.

So, the correct option is 'Mutation of the single Mendelian gene for survival in the smoke-laden industrial environment.'

With an average cranial capacity of 1600 cc, Neanderthal's cranial capacity is notably larger than the 1400 cc average for modern humans, indicating that their brain size was larger. Cranial capacity of Australopithecus is 375 - 550 cc. Cranial capacity of Peking man is 1000 cc. Java man was characterized by a cranial capacity averaging 900 cc. 

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Malthus and the Theory of Population

The theory that human population will outstrip the food supply was conceived by Thomas Malthus, an English economist and demographer. Malthus published his theory in 1798 in a book titled "An Essay on the Principle of Population."

The Main Points of Malthus' Theory:
- Malthus argued that population grows at a geometric rate (exponentially), while the food supply grows at an arithmetic rate (linearly).
- As a result, population will eventually exceed the available food supply, leading to famine, disease, and other forms of population control.
- Malthus believed that these checks on population growth were necessary to prevent overpopulation and maintain a balance between population and resources.
Factors Supporting Malthus' Theory:
- Limited resources: Malthus observed that resources such as land, water, and food are finite and cannot sustain an infinite population growth.
- Population growth patterns: Malthus observed that throughout history, population growth has been accompanied by periods of famine, disease, and other forms of population control.
- Historical evidence: Malthus pointed to historical examples, such as the famines in Europe during the 18th century, to support his theory that population growth can exceed food supply.
Critiques of Malthus' Theory:
- Technological advancements: Critics argue that Malthus did not account for the potential of technological advancements to increase food production and improve resource management.
- Demographic transitions: Critics also argue that Malthus did not consider the impact of changes in birth rates, death rates, and population structure on population dynamics.
- Distribution and access: Critics point out that issues of unequal distribution and access to resources, rather than absolute scarcity, are often the main causes of hunger and poverty.
Conclusion:
Thomas Malthus' theory of population and the belief that human population will outstrip the food supply continues to be a topic of debate and discussion. While Malthus' theory has been criticized for its oversimplifications and lack of consideration for technological advancements and social factors, it still serves as a reminder of the need for sustainable resource management and equitable distribution of resources to ensure the well-being of future generations.