Multiple Choice
Natural selection can be defined as ________.
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
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Based on the evolutionary tree of the three domains (Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya), which of the following statements is true?
A
Bacteria and Eukarya are more closely related to each other than either is to Archaea.
B
Eukarya evolved directly from modern Bacteria.
C
Archaea and Eukarya share a more recent common ancestor with each other than with Bacteria.
D
All three domains diverged from a common ancestor at the same time.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the evolutionary tree of life. The three domains of life—Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya—are represented in an evolutionary tree that shows their relationships based on common ancestry. This tree is constructed using genetic and molecular evidence, such as ribosomal RNA sequences.
Step 2: Analyze the relationship between Archaea and Eukarya. Studies have shown that Archaea and Eukarya share a more recent common ancestor with each other than either does with Bacteria. This is supported by similarities in their genetic and molecular machinery, such as the presence of histones and similarities in RNA polymerase enzymes.
Step 3: Evaluate the statement 'Bacteria and Eukarya are more closely related to each other than either is to Archaea.' This statement is incorrect because molecular evidence indicates that Eukarya is more closely related to Archaea than to Bacteria.
Step 4: Consider the statement 'Eukarya evolved directly from modern Bacteria.' This is also incorrect. While Eukarya may have incorporated bacterial genes through processes like endosymbiosis (e.g., mitochondria and chloroplasts), they did not evolve directly from modern Bacteria.
Step 5: Address the statement 'All three domains diverged from a common ancestor at the same time.' This is incorrect because the divergence of these domains occurred at different times, with Bacteria diverging first, followed by the split between Archaea and Eukarya. The correct statement is: 'Archaea and Eukarya share a more recent common ancestor with each other than with Bacteria.'
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