FRQ

Question 1

Charles Darwin proposed that evolution by natural selection was the basis for the differences he saw in similar organisms as he traveled and collected specimens in South America and on the Galápagos Islands.
A). Explain the theory of evolution by natural selection as presented by Darwin (his 6 main points).
B). Describe how scientists use each of the following as evidence for evolution
1. Bacterial resistance to antibodies
2. Comparative biochemistry
3. The fossil record

Answer 1

PART A:

1. With natural selection, there is overproduction of offspring, so at least some will survive.
2. Also more chances for random mutations
3. There is competition between them for the same resources. Some survive, while others do not.
4. Natural selection also leads to variation between individuals and between different species, and some of this is heritable.
5. Therefore, species can adapt to changing conditions to ensure survival.
6. Darwin states that species alive today are descended modification from ancestral species, this links all organisms on Earth. (Ex: bacterial resistance to antibiotics)

PART B:

1. Bacteria have evolved to fight antibodies in order to survive. This is shown in our continual research for a new vaccine and the need to get vaccinated for the most current version. Since it has evolved, we need the antibodies that can fight the more-evolved version off.
2. Comparative biochemistry studies the similarities and differences between different species, which can show where the ancestors of a species branched off from another to form a new one. This shows the change in multiple species over time.
3. The fossil record shows fossils of all kinds through many years. It shows the evolution of many species with the different versions of each over time.

Question 2

The complexity of structure and function varies widely across the kingdoms. Despite this variation, organisms exhibit common processes. These include the following:
•transport of materials within an organism
•response to stimuli
•gas exchange
•locomotion
•cellular respiration
A). Choose two of the processes above and for each, compare two kingdoms or phyla from the list below (Plant, Moneran, Cnidaria, annelida, Chordata, Protist). In your comparison, describe a relevant structure and how they function to accomplish the process in the kingdom or phyla. Be specific.
B). Explain the adaptive (evolutionary) value(s) of the structural examples you described in part A. In other words, how how do those adaptions allow it to survive?

Answer 2

PART A:

PART B: