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IB DP Biology Questions

5.1 Theory of Evolution

Question 1

Which of the following observations made by Darwin on the Galapagos Islands was crucial for developing his theory of evolution?

A. Similarity in climate across the islands

B. Variation in beak shapes of finches on different islands

C. Presence of the same species on every island

D. Absence of mammals on the islands

Question 2

What is the primary mechanism that Darwin proposed for evolution?

A. Genetic drift

B. Mutation

C. Natural selection

D. Gene flow

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a key component of natural selection?

A. Genetic variation

B. Overproduction of offspring

C. Random mating

D. Survival of the fittest

Question 4

The peppered moth is an example of:

A. Disruptive selection

B. Directional selection

C. Stabilizing selection

D. Sexual selection

Question 5

Which evidence for evolution involves comparing the early developmental stages of different organisms?

A. Fossil records

B. Biogeography

C. Comparative anatomy

D. Embryology

Question 6

a) Outline the key observations made by Charles Darwin on his voyage on the Beagle that contributed to the development of the theory of evolution. [4]

b) Explain how the study of finches on the Galapagos Islands supported Darwin’s concept of descent with modification. [3]

Question 7

a) Define natural selection and discuss the role of genetic variation in this process. [3]

b) Using the example of the peppered moth, illustrate how natural selection can lead to evolutionary change. [4]

Question 8

a) Describe how fossil records provide evidence supporting the theory of evolution, demonstrating gradual change over geologic time. [4]

b) Explain how biogeography contributes to our understanding of evolution, with reference to unique species distribution. [3]

Question 9

a) Discuss the significance of homologous structures in different species in supporting the theory of evolution. [3]

b) Explain what vestigial structures are and provide an example. [2]

c) How does the study of embryology reveal evidence of common ancestry among different species? [4]

Question 10

a) Define and differentiate between allopatric and sympatric speciation. [4]

b) Provide an example of a physical barrier that could lead to allopatric speciation. [2]

c) Explain how polyploidy can result in sympatric speciation. [3]

Question 11

What does the presence of homologous structures indicate?

A. Convergent evolution

B. Divergent evolution

C. Parallel evolution

D. Co-evolution

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT considered evidence for evolution?

A. Vestigial structures

B. Analogous structures

C. Molecular biology

D. Fossil records

Question 13

How does biogeography provide evidence for evolution?

A. By showing the distribution of fossils

B. By showing the distribution of living species across geographical areas

C. By comparing the DNA of different species

D. By studying the anatomy of different species

Question 14

What is the significance of the fossil record in supporting the theory of evolution?

A. It shows the existence of extinct species

B. It demonstrates gradual change over geologic time

C. It reveals the DNA sequences of ancient organisms

D. It provides information on the current biodiversity

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the concept of "survival of the fittest"?

A. Organisms with the highest reproductive success

B. The strongest and most aggressive organisms

C. Organisms that live the longest

D. Organisms with the most beneficial mutations

Question 16

a) Describe the concept of survival of the fittest and how it relates to natural selection. [3]

b) Discuss how the overproduction of offspring contributes to the process of natural selection. [3]

c) Provide an example of an adaptation in animals that has evolved through natural selection. [3]

Question 17

a) Explain how molecular biology provides evidence for evolution, with reference to genetic similarities among different species. [4]

b) Discuss the importance of genetic variation in the process of evolution by natural selection. [3]

c) How does the concept of descent with modification relate to the development of new species? [2]

Question 18

a) Outline the observations made by Charles Darwin on the Galapagos Islands that contributed to his theory of evolution. [4]

b) Explain the role of genetic variation in the process of natural selection. [3]

c) Discuss how the fossil record supports the theory of evolution, providing an example. [3]

d) Define the term “biodiversity hotspot” and explain its significance in conservation strategies. [3]

Question 19

a) Describe the concept of descent with modification and its importance in Darwin’s theory of evolution. [3]

b) How does comparative anatomy provide evidence for evolution? Give an example of homologous structures. [4]

c) Discuss the impact of human activities on biodiversity, citing two examples. [3]

d) Explain how the creation of protected areas contributes to biodiversity conservation. [3]

Question 20

a) Define allopatric speciation and discuss how geographical isolation can lead to the formation of new species. [4]

b) Explain the significance of studying embryology in understanding evolutionary relationships among species. [3]

c) Provide an example of an adaptation in plants that has evolved through natural selection and discuss its benefits. [3]

d) Outline the role of international agreements in biodiversity conservation and provide an example of such an agreement. [3]

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