Test: Evolution & Classification - UPSC MCQ

Evolution is the change in the inherited characteristics of biological populations over successive generations. Evolution is the gradual development of more complex species from pre-existing simpler forms. Evolution resulted in diversity of organismswhich is influenced by environmental selection

Humans did not evolve from apes, gorillas or chimps. We are all modern species that have followed different evolutionary paths, though humans share a common ancestor with some primates, such as the African ape.

Evolutionary relationships can be easily traced with the help of tools like time dating, excavating and information about DNA sequences. Historical details of organisms are not helpful in tracing their evolutionary relationships.

Homo habilis is the earliest known species in the human lineage.  Named in 1964 by Richard Leakey, the term ‘habilis’ refers to ’being handy.’  This name was suggested because the hand and foot remains of this species were of special interest to the anthropologists studying.

Some farmers wanted to select for arrested flower development, and have bred broccoli.

The unified cell theory states that: all living things are composed of one or more cells; the cell is the basic unit of life; and new cells arise from existing cells. 

It is so because we are only in the influence of our culture and heritage and making small groups make us remote and self centered so ultimately not aware of the activities outside of group of species and this overall makes us backward.

The use of feathers by birds for flying means that birds have evolved from reptiles. Dinosaurs had feathers but could not fly using them. Birds, later adapted the feathers for flight. Since, dinosaurs were reptiles, this means that birds have evolved from them.

Characteristics assist us to trace the evolutionary relationship between organisms. Evolutionary relationships help us to trace who we are more close to and who is our common ancestor.

A group of organisms is similar enough to be thought of together by certain characteristics.

Selecting and breeding wild cabbage plants with slightly larger leaves gave rise to the leafy vegetable called kale.