During a study session about evolution, one of your fellow students remarks, "The giraffe stretched its neck while reaching for higher leaves; its offspring inherited longer necks as a result." Which statement is most likely to be helpful in correcting this student's misconception?
A)Characteristics acquired during an organism's life are generally not passed on through genes.
B)Spontaneous mutations can result in the appearance of new traits.
C)Only favorable adaptations have survival value.
D)Disuse of an organ may lead to its eventual disappearance.
E)Overproduction of offspring leads to a struggle for survival.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The student's misconception is based on the idea of Lamarckian inheritance, which proposes that traits acquired during an organism's lifetime can be passed down to its offspring. However, this has been disproven by scientific evidence, and the correct understanding is that genetic mutations and variations that already exist within a population are responsible for the development of new traits. Therefore, choice A, which emphasizes that acquired characteristics are generally not inherited, is the best option to correct the student's misconception.

During a Study Session About Evolution, One of Your Fellow