11A - Defining Human

Question 1

Homo sapiens

Answer 1

The species name for modern humans.

Question 2

taxon (pl. taxa)

Answer 2

A unit of biological classification into which related organisms are classified. Taxa are arranged in hierarchical rank from kingdom down to species, where members of a specific taxon typically share certain morphological characteristics.

Question 3

mammals

Answer 3

Warm-blooded vertebrates belonging to the taxonomic class Mammalia that have mammary glands, hair/fur, three middle ear bones, and one lower jawbone.

Question 4

primates

Answer 4

The highest order of mammals, comprised of about 400 different living species who share a number of features including opposable digits and binocular vision.

Question 5

hominoids

Answer 5

Members of the superfamily Hominoidea that includes apes and humans.

Question 6

hominins

Answer 6

Members of the taxonomic tribe Hominini that includes modern humans and our upright-walking ancestors.

Question 7

cranium

Answer 7

The part of the skull that covers the brain.

Question 8

prehensile

Answer 8

The ability to grasp objects.

Question 9

opposable digit

Answer 9

A digit (either the thumb, big toe, or both) that is able to touch all the other digits on the same appendage.

Question 10

precision grip

Answer 10

A type of grip involving the tips of the thumb and finger, used primates (to varying extents) for precise manipulation of objects of various sizes.

Question 11

power grip

Answer 11

A type of grip involving the palm and the fingers, used by primates (to varying extents) for moving and manipulating objects. The power grip generates more force due to the significant use of the palm.

Question 12

bepedalism

Answer 12

Using two legs for walking upright.

Question 13

canine teeth

Answer 13

A type of tooth in mammals that is relatively long and pointed.

Question 14

foramen magnum

Answer 14

The hole in the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes. A more centralised foramen magnum indicates bipedal locomotion.

Question 15

brow ridge

Answer 15

A bony ridge above the eye sockets. It is found in all primates, but is greatly reduced in Homo sapiens.

Question 16

sagittal crest

Answer 16

A ridge of hard bonerunning lengthwise (front to back) along the top of the skull. A pronounced sagittal crest indicates strong jaw muscles.

Question 17

femure angle

Answer 17

The angle between the top and bottom of the femur when standing. It is greater in hominins when compared to other primates.