Science 7 B - Evolution of the Horse quick check answers

Answer 1

1. What is the main idea of the theory of evolution by natural selection?

The main idea of the theory of evolution by natural selection is that organisms that are better adapted to their environment will survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to their offspring.

2. How did the horse evolve over time according to the fossil record?

According to the fossil record, the horse evolved from a small, multi-toed ancestor to the larger, single-toed modern horse we see today. This evolution was driven by changing environmental conditions and natural selection.

3. How did the evolution of the horse demonstrate the concept of adaptation?

The evolution of the horse demonstrates the concept of adaptation by showing how the horse's physical characteristics changed over time to better suit its changing environment. For example, the horse's teeth and feet adapted to better graze on grasslands, and its size increased to better escape predators.

4. What role did natural selection play in the evolution of the horse?

Natural selection played a crucial role in the evolution of the horse by favoring individuals with traits that were better suited to their environment. For example, horses with longer legs were better able to outrun predators and survive, leading to the evolution of taller horses over time.