Question 1

Which of the following best explains why biologists prefer binomial nomenclature over common names when classifying organisms?

Accepted Answer

Common names can vary by region and language, while binomial nomenclature provides a universal, standardized system.

Question 2

Arrange the following taxonomic categories in order from smallest (most specific) to largest (most inclusive): Family, Order, Genus, Class, Species, Kingdom, Domain, Phylum.

Accepted Answer

Species, Genus, Family, Order, Class, Phylum, Kingdom, Domain

Question 3

A phylogenetic tree is considered a hypothesis because:

Accepted Answer

It represents a testable explanation of the evolutionary relationships among taxa, which may change with new evidence.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of a shared derived trait (synapomorphy) in mammals?

Accepted Answer

Hair or fur

Question 5

What is the significance of a node (branch point) on a phylogenetic tree?

Accepted Answer

It indicates the most recent common ancestor of the descendant taxa.

Question 6

Which of the following best describes a monophyletic group?

Accepted Answer

A group that includes an ancestor and all of its descendants.

Question 7

Why is convergent evolution important to consider when constructing phylogenies?

Accepted Answer

It can result in analogous traits that may be mistaken for evidence of common ancestry.

Question 8

Which of the following statements about horizontal gene transfer is correct?

Accepted Answer

It can transfer genetic material between unrelated species, complicating phylogenetic analysis.

Question 9

A researcher is comparing DNA sequences from four species to build a phylogenetic tree. According to the rule of thumb, which pair of species is most closely related?

Accepted Answer

The pair with the fewest differences in their DNA sequences.

Question 10

Which of the following best illustrates the principle of maximum parsimony in phylogenetic analysis?

Accepted Answer

Choosing the tree that requires the fewest evolutionary changes.

Question 11

Which kingdoms are no longer recognized in the modern classification system, and why?

Accepted Answer

Monera and Protista, because they are not monophyletic.

Question 12

Which domains are prokaryotic?

Accepted Answer

Bacteria and Archaea

Question 13

A silent (neutral) mutation is best described as:

Accepted Answer

A mutation that does not affect the phenotype of the organism.

Question 14

Which of the following is an example of an ancestral trait in vertebrates?

Accepted Answer

Presence of a backbone

Question 15

If two species share a trait due to common ancestry, this trait is called:

Accepted Answer

A homologous trait

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the difference between extinct and extant taxa?

Accepted Answer

Extinct taxa are no longer living, while extant taxa are currently living.

Question 17

In a phylogenetic tree, what does the root represent?

Accepted Answer

The most recent common ancestor of all taxa in the tree.

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct way to write a species name using binomial nomenclature?

Accepted Answer

Homo sapiens

Question 19

A character matrix is used in phylogenetic analysis to:

Accepted Answer

Compare the presence or absence of traits among taxa to infer evolutionary relationships.

Question 20

Which of the following scenarios best demonstrates the application of multiple concepts: If a mutation occurs in a population of bacteria that confers antibiotic resistance, and this gene is later transferred to another species via horizontal gene transfer, what is the long-term evolutionary significance?

Accepted Answer

The mutation increases genetic diversity and, through horizontal gene transfer, can spread adaptive traits across species, impacting phylogenetic relationships.

Chapter 20: Phylogeny and the Tree of Life – Study Guide and Key Concepts

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards