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Question 33 — The Human Story (25 marks) (a) Name the GENUS to which modern humans belong - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 33 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 33
Question 33 — The Human Story (25 marks) (a) Name the GENUS to which modern humans belong. (b) Describe THREE primate characteristics of prosimians. (c) Durin... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 33 — The Human Story (25 marks) (a) Name the GENUS to which modern humans belong - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 33 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
Step 2
Describe THREE primate characteristics of prosimians.
Answer
Prosimians exhibit several unique characteristics:
- Nocturnal Behavior: Many prosimians are adapted to a nocturnal lifestyle, possessing large eyes to enhance vision in low light.
- Clinging and Leaping: They have specialized limb structures that enable them to cling to branches and leap between trees efficiently.
- Enhanced Olfactory Sense: Prosimians often have a keen sense of smell, which is more developed than in higher primates.
Step 3
Provide an outline of the method followed when modelling DNA-DNA hybridisation.
Answer
To model DNA-DNA hybridisation, the following steps can be outlined:
- Sample Collection: Gather DNA samples from the species being studied.
- DNA Extraction: Use a suitable method to extract DNA from the samples.
- Denaturation: Heat the extracted DNA to separate the strands.
- Hybridisation: Mix the single-stranded DNA from different species and allow them to combine.
- Analysis: Assess the temperature at which the hybrids dissociate to evaluate the genetic similarity.
Step 4
Explain how this investigation increased your understanding of the use of DNA-DNA hybridisation in possible evolutionary relationships.
Answer
This investigation enhanced my understanding by demonstrating how DNA-DNA hybridisation can reveal genetic similarities and differences among species. It provides insights into evolutionary relationships by presenting evidence of common ancestry. The degree of hybridisation indicates the closeness of the genetic relationship between the species.
Step 5
Discuss the impact that modern technologies have on research in this area.
Answer
Modern technologies, such as genomic sequencing and bioinformatics, have revolutionized research on human evolution. They allow for more accurate and detailed analysis of genetic material, enabling researchers to identify evolutionary links and divergence with precision. Technologies like CRISPR also facilitate genetic manipulation and comparative analysis, leading to deeper insights into human ancestry and evolution.
Step 6
Based on the data above, construct a table that describes the anatomical differences between an ape and a human.
Answer
| Feature | Human | Ape |
|---|---|---|
| Brain Size | Larger brain volume | Smaller brain volume |
| Pelvis Structure | Shorter and broader pelvis | Longer and narrower pelvis |
| Limb Proportion | Proportional limbs | Longer arms relative to legs |
Step 7
How does the interpretation of the differences in TWO of these anatomical features provide evidence to support human evolution?
Answer
The differences in brain size and pelvis structure provide significant evidence:
- Brain Size: The larger brain volume in humans suggests advanced cognitive abilities and complex behaviors, indicating evolutionary advantages over apes.
- Pelvis Structure: The shorter and broader pelvis in humans is adapted for bipedal locomotion, supporting the theory that upright walking evolved before significant changes in brain size.