Question

The diagram shows how Homo sapiens (modern people) could have evolved from their ancestors.

Which statement about modern people and their ancestors is correct?
A. They are in the same species and the same genus.
B. They are in the same species but not the same genus.
C. They are in the same genus but not the same species.
D. They are neither the same species nor the same genus.

Answer 1

Hint: The process of evolution involves a series of processes by which the organism undergoes changes by which other species arise, adapt, and survive in the environment and become extinct. Evolution generally occurs when there is a mutation in the genetic material, which gets inherited from one generation to another.

Complete answer:
Studies showed that modern human species show similarities with primates like apes. These similarities include both physical as well as genetic characteristics. Thus, it is believed that humans and apes share common ancestors that lived 6-8 million years ago.
It was in 1964 a famous paleoanthropologist with his team discovered the most ancient species of humans (Homo) is the Homo habilis. They had a spheroid shaped skull, and their head resembled that of the modern man.
Another famous paleoanthropologist named Eugene Dubois discovered the first fossil of Homo erectus. After the discovery of Homo erectus, several other species of Homo were also discovered. The Neanderthalensis commonly known as the Neanderthals are the best known among this. They made use of natural resources like animals, plants, and minerals for their better survival. From the time of Homo erectus itself, homo species migrated out of Africa and gradually colonized across the whole planet.
Homo is the name of a genus that includes humans. In the given options, it can be seen the all have the same genus homo whereas different species.

The correct answer is option C, which states “They are in the same genus but not the same species.”

Note: The study of human evolution is known as Paleoanthropology. Ancient human fossils and remains are the most important evidence used in the study of human evolution. These include bones, tools, and other shreds of evidence like footprints, ancient writings.