Question

How does a theory develop? Consider the development of the theory of evolution over the centuries. All of the statements below except one provides supportive evidence for the theory of evolution.
Responses
A The fossil record indicates change in earlier species to more modern species.The fossil record indicates change in earlier species to more modern species.
B Anatomical similarities such as homologous structures and vestigial organs point to evolution of life forms.Anatomical similarities such as homologous structures and vestigial organs point to evolution of life forms.
C The geography of Earth has changed over the millennia and if the geography has changed, we know that life forms must have changed as well.The geography of Earth has changed over the millennia and if the geography has changed, we know that life forms must have changed as well.
D Artificial selection provides a model that helps understand natural selection and we can envision natural conditions acting selectively on populations to cause evolution.Artificial selection provides a model that helps understand natural selection and we can envision natural conditions acting selectively on populations to cause evolution.

Answer 1

C

Explanation: A, B and D are direct lines of evidence for evolution (fossils show change over time; homologous structures and vestigial organs indicate common ancestry; artificial selection demonstrates how selection changes populations). Statement C is misleading — Earth’s geography changing (e.g., plate tectonics, climate shifts) can influence distribution and promote speciation, but the fact that geography changed by itself is not direct evidence that organisms evolved.