/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 5 Which of the processes described... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91影视

91影视

Log out

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 18: Problem 5

Which of the processes described is divergent evolution? a. Groups of organisms evolve in different directions from a common point. b. A new species develops rapidly when an event cuts off a portion of a population. c. Groups of organisms independently evolve to similar forms. d. A species evolves when a few members move to a new geographical area

Short Answer

Expert verified
Option (a) is divergent evolution.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Question

The question asks to identify which process is an example of divergent evolution.
02

Define Divergent Evolution

Divergent evolution occurs when two or more species evolve increasingly different traits, due to their adaptation to different environments, from a common ancestor.
03

Analyze Each Option

Evaluate each given option in the context of divergent evolution: (a) Groups of organisms evolve in different directions from a common point (b) A new species develops rapidly when an event cuts off a portion of a population (c) Groups of organisms independently evolve to similar forms (d) A species evolves when a few members move to a new geographical area.
04

Evaluate Option A

Option (a) describes groups of organisms evolving in different directions from a common point, which aligns with the definition of divergent evolution.
05

Evaluate Other Options

Option (b) describes speciation due to isolation, not divergent evolution. Option (c) describes convergent evolution, not divergent evolution. Option (d) describes geographic dispersal, not necessarily divergent evolution.
06

Select the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, option (a) is the correct example of divergent evolution.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91影视!

Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

headline of the respective core concept
Divergent evolution is a fascinating process where species evolve in different directions from a common ancestor. This change happens because organisms adapt to different environments, leading to various distinctive traits. Think of Darwin's finches: they all started from a common point but evolved differently based on their habitats. This is crucial to understanding how species diversify and adapt over time.
speciation
Speciation is the process where new species arise. This happens when populations of the same species become isolated from each other. These groups can no longer interbreed and eventually evolve into distinct species.

There are several types of speciation:
  • Allopatric speciation: Occurs when populations are geographically separated.
  • Sympatric speciation: Happens without physical separation, maybe due to genetic changes or niche differentiation.
  • Peripatric speciation: Similar to allopatric but involves smaller populations that become isolated.
  • Parapatric speciation: Neighboring populations evolve into distinct species while maintaining contact along a common border.
Understanding these types helps us see how diverse life forms emerge and adapt.
evolutionary biology
Evolutionary biology studies how life forms on Earth evolve. It explores the processes of natural selection, where traits beneficial for survival are passed down, and how new species arise over time.

Key concepts include:
  • Natural selection: Survival and reproduction of those best adapted to their environment.
  • Genetic drift: Random changes in gene frequencies in a population.
  • Gene flow: Transfer of genetic material between populations.
This field helps us understand life's complexity and the interconnectedness of all species.
adaptive traits
Adaptive traits are characteristics that enhance an organism鈥檚 survival and reproduction in its environment. These traits can be physical, behavioral, or physiological.

Examples include:
  • Camouflage: Helps organisms blend into their surroundings to avoid predators.
  • Beak shape in birds: Varies based on diet and feeding habits.
  • Temperature regulation: Traits that help maintain stable body temperatures in varying climates.
Leveraging these traits allows organisms to thrive and reproduce, passing on these traits to the next generation.
common ancestor
The idea of a common ancestor means that all species share an ancestral lineage. Over time, evolutionary pressures cause diverging adaptations leading to new species. This concept is central to evolutionary biology.

For example:
  • Humans and chimpanzees: Share a common ancestor from millions of years ago.
  • Dogs and wolves: Evolved from a now-extinct wolf-like ancestor.
Understanding common ancestry helps trace the evolutionary paths and relationships between different species.

This interconnectedness highlights the unity of life and the shared origins of diverse organisms.

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Mutations in the glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene can cause a rare anemia when inherited. However, homozygotes with this mutation are less prone to malaria infection, a disease that historically was the most widespread deadly disease among humans. Predict how this mutation would affect the fitness of individuals living in countries where malaria is endemic.

Which situation means reinforcement is more likely to occur in the hybrid zone? a. The hybrid offspring are more fit than the parent species. b. Reproductive barriers weaken. c. The hybrid offspring are about as fit as the parent species. d. Reproductive barriers strengthen.

Populations of a nocturnal toad live along a long river. On the other side of a band of territory that is about 10 kilometers wide, there are populations of a toad that appear similar. Which of the following data would provide compelling evidence that the two populations represent different species? a. The populations of toads on the other side of the banded territory are not completely nocturnal. b. Fertile hybrid populations of toads are foundmbetween the two other populations. c. There appear to be some hybrid toads between the two populations, but they are few and frail. d. The two populations of toads enact very different mating behaviors.

What is unique about speciation due to adaptive radiation? a. It leads to multiple species forming from one parent species. b. It only occurs on or around island archipelagos. c. It requires a population to disperse from its parent species. d. It is a special kind of sympatric speciation.

Which situation is most likely an example of convergent evolution? a. Some fish that live in total darkness have eyes. b. Hawks and other birds have feathers. c. Worms and snakes both move without legs. d. Flowers that look very different have the same reproductive organs.
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Cell Cycle

Read Explanation

Cells

Read Explanation

Biological Molecules

Read Explanation

Ecology

Read Explanation

Control of Gene Expression

Read Explanation

Reproduction

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.