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Multiple Choice
Which idea is most directly related to Lamarck’s beliefs about evolution?
A
Natural selection acts on variations that already exist within a population.
B
Organisms can acquire traits during their lifetime and pass them on to their offspring.
C
All species share a common ancestor and diverge over time.
D
Genetic mutations are the primary source of evolutionary change.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand Lamarck's theory of evolution: Lamarck proposed that organisms could acquire traits during their lifetime through use or disuse of certain features and pass these acquired traits to their offspring. This idea is known as the inheritance of acquired characteristics.
Compare Lamarck's idea to the options provided: Lamarck's beliefs are distinct from Darwin's theory of natural selection, which emphasizes variations already present in a population. Lamarck's idea focuses on traits acquired during an organism's lifetime.
Evaluate the option 'Organisms can acquire traits during their lifetime and pass them on to their offspring': This directly aligns with Lamarck's theory and is the most relevant to his beliefs about evolution.
Consider the other options: 'Natural selection acts on variations that already exist within a population' aligns with Darwin's theory, not Lamarck's. 'All species share a common ancestor and diverge over time' is a concept from evolutionary biology but not specific to Lamarck. 'Genetic mutations are the primary source of evolutionary change' is a modern understanding of evolution, unrelated to Lamarck's ideas.
Conclude that the correct answer is the option that directly reflects Lamarck's belief: 'Organisms can acquire traits during their lifetime and pass them on to their offspring.'