Asked in Premeth Test 3 — The Cell, Evolution and Enzymes (5 March 2025) 2025Moderate

Darwin's theory of evolution was mainly based on the evidence from the:

Correct answer: D. Geographical distribution of species and fossil record

  • A. Geographical distribution of species
  • B. Fossil record
  • C. Population genetics
  • D. Geographical distribution of species and fossil record

Explanation

Darwin's theory of evolution was primarily based on evidence from the geographical distribution of species and the fossil record. These sources offered crucial insights into how species adapted to their environments and changed over time. The geographical distribution revealed patterns that suggested common ancestry and adaptation, while the fossil record provided a timeline of evolutionary changes. Although the concept of population genetics is essential today, it was not part of Darwin's original theory. Therefore, it is correct to say that Darwin's theory was founded on both the geographical distribution of species and the fossil record.

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About Darwinism

Darwinism explains evolution through inherited variation, competition for limited resources, survival and reproduction of better-adapted organisms, and natural selection over generations. It is distinguished from Lamarckism because Darwin's explanation depends on selection acting on existing heritable differences, not the inheritance of acquired characteristics.

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