TEAS 7 practice test science Related

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Which of these pairs represents an example of convergent evolution?

  • A. Humans and chimpanzees
  • B. Bats and birds
  • C. Dolphins and sharks
  • D. Snakes and earthworms
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Convergent evolution refers to the process by which different species independently evolve similar traits or characteristics due to similar environmental pressures. In the case of bats and birds, both have evolved wings for flight despite not sharing a recent common ancestor with wings. Bats are mammals, while birds are avians, yet they both have wings adapted for flight, which is a classic example of convergent evolution.

A) Humans and chimpanzees share a common ancestor and have not independently evolved similar traits.
C) Dolphins and sharks are not closely related, and their similarities are due to adaptations to their aquatic environment rather than convergent evolution.
D) Snakes and earthworms belong to different classes (reptiles and annelids, respectively) and do not share recent common ancestors, making their similarities not a result of convergent evolution.