which best describes the theory of evolution? A. a theory supported by evidence B. an educated guess C.a hunch made by scientists D. a hypothesis with no evidence
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. a theory supported by evidence.
The theory of evolution, proposed by Charles Darwin in the 19th century, explains how species change over time through a process of natural selection, where traits that improve survival and reproduction become more common in a population. This theory is considered one of the cornerstones of modern biology and is supported by extensive evidence from multiple scientific disciplines, including genetics, paleontology, comparative anatomy, and molecular biology.
Evidence for evolution includes the fossil record, which shows a historical progression of life forms with transitional species linking major groups of organisms. Comparative anatomy reveals similarities between species that suggest a common ancestry, such as homologous structures (body parts with a similar structure due to shared ancestry) and vestigial structures (body parts that have lost their original function over time). Additionally, molecular evidence, such as genetic similarities between species, further supports the idea that all life shares a common origin.
Evolution is also supported by observed examples of natural selection in modern organisms. For instance, the famous example of the peppered moths in England shows how the frequency of dark-colored moths increased during the industrial revolution due to the darker environment created by pollution, demonstrating how organisms can adapt to changing environments over time.
The theory of evolution is much more than an educated guess or hypothesis; it is a well-established scientific theory backed by overwhelming evidence. While scientific theories are always open to refinement or modification with new evidence, the theory of evolution is as robust and reliable as other scientific theories, such as the theory of gravity or germ theory. Therefore, it is accurate to describe evolution as a theory supported by evidence.
