Home / IB DP Biology- A4.1 Evolution and speciation- IB Style Questions For HL Paper 1A

IB DP Biology- A4.1 Evolution and speciation- IB Style Questions For HL Paper 1A -New Syllabus

IBDP Biology HL Paper 1 -All Chapters

Question

What is evidence for evolution?

I. Homologous structures such as pentadactyl limbs
II. Domestication of dogs from wolves
III. Inheritance of acquired characteristics
(A) I and II only
(B) I and III only
(C) II and III only
(D) I, II and III
▶️ Answer/Explanation

Correct Answer: \( \boxed{\mathbf{A}} \)

Homologous structures, such as pentadactyl limbs, indicate a common evolutionary ancestor, while the domestication of dogs from wolves demonstrates evolution through artificial selection. The inheritance of acquired characteristics is not supported by modern genetics and is not accepted as evidence for evolution.

Question

The images below show an Ichthyosaurus and a dolphin. The Ichthyosaurus was an extinct aquatic reptile known from fossils, whereas dolphins are modern mammals.

How can the evolution of these two species best be described?

A. Their streamlined bodies show divergent evolution.
B. Their streamlined bodies are analogous structures.
C. Their pentadactyl limbs are an example of convergent evolution.
D. Their pentadactyl limbs are analogous structures.

▶️ Answer/Explanation
The Ichthyosaurus (a reptile) and the dolphin (a mammal) evolved independently but developed similar streamlined body shapes for efficient swimming. These similarities arose due to similar environmental pressures, not because of shared ancestry. Hence, their streamlined forms are analogous structures — a result of convergent evolution.
✅ Answer: (B) Their streamlined bodies are analogous structures.

Question

What is the evolutionary origin and function of analogous structures in living organisms?

OptionEvolutionary originFunction
ADifferent originSimilar function
BDifferent originSame or different function
CSame or different originSame function
DSame originDifferent function
▶️ Answer/Explanation

Correct Answer: \( \boxed{\mathbf{A}} \)

Analogous structures arise through convergent evolution. They have different evolutionary origins but perform similar functions. An example is the wings of birds and insects, which evolved independently but are both used for flight.

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