Biology
Define the following terms:
(a) Evolution
(b) Vestigial organs
(c) Speciation
(d) Bipedalism
(e) Natural selection
Answer
(a) Evolution — Evolution is a slow and continuous process whereby complex forms of life have emerged from simpler forms through millions of years.
(b) Vestigial organs — Vestigial organs are remnants of once-functional structures in the organism's ancestors that have lost their original purpose through evolution in the present-day species.
(c) Speciation — Origin of new species by gradual modification is called 'speciation'.
(d) Bipedalism — Walking straight on hind limbs and freeing of forelimbs from ground is called bipedalism.
(e) Natural selection — Natural selection is the process by which certain heritable traits become more or less common in a population over generations based on their impact on an organism's survival and reproduction in a specific environment.
Related Questions
Give the scientific name of the organism which is cited as the classical example of 'natural selection'.
Tick mark (√) the correct option in the following statements.
(a) The fossil history of humans is complete/fragmentary.
(b) The first remarkable human fossil was that of H. habilis/H. africanus.
(c) Evolution is an ever continuing/promptly ending process.
Distinguish between Australopithecus and Cro-magnon (Chin)
Distinguish between Australopithecus and Modern man (Body hair)