Question

question 1
2 pts
which of the following assertions by lamarck is supported by evidence today? (choose all that apply)
traits can be passed on from generation to generation.
modern species share common ancestry.
modern species are the result of continual improvement.
acquired traits such as size and weight are usually passed on.

Explanation:

1. For "Traits can be passed on from generation to generation": Modern genetics shows that heritable traits (encoded in DNA) are passed from parents to offspring, so this assertion has support.
2. For "Modern species share common ancestry": Evolutionary biology (e.g., fossil records, genetic homology) confirms that all life shares a common ancestor, aligning with the idea of relatedness among species.
3. For "Modern species are the result of continual improvement": Evolution is not about "improvement" but adaptation to environments; traits become more common if they increase fitness, not based on a progressive "improvement" goal, so this is not supported.
4. For "Acquired traits such as size and weight are usually passed on": Lamarck's idea of acquired traits (like a giraffe stretching its neck and passing the longer neck to offspring) is not supported—most acquired traits (non - genetic changes) are not inherited.

Answer:

A. Traits can be passed on from generation to generation, B. Modern species share common ancestry