SparkNotes: Evolution and Genes: Sample Quiz Questions

1. What are polygenic traits?

(A) Psychological traits

(B) Physical traits

(C) Traits that result in the transmission of many genes

(D) Traits that arise from the action of several genes

2. Which of the following cannot affect psychological traits?

(A) Nutrition

(B) Child-rearing practices

(C) Prenatal environment

(D) None of the above

3. Which of the following statements is false?

(A) Heritability estimates tell us the degree to which genes influence an individual’s traits

(B) Heritability depends on how similar the environment is for a group of people

(C) A highly heritable trait can be influenced by environmental factors

(D) A and C

4. Researchers have proposed that mating strategies depend on which of the following?

(A) The number of genes coded for mating behavior in males and females

(B) The heritability of the mating strategy in males and females

(C) The amount of parental investment made by males and females

(D) All of the above

5. Which of the following statements accurately describes genes?

(A) They are segments of DNA

(B) They function as hereditary units

(C) They are translated into proteins

(D) All of the above

6. Which of the following statements accurately describes chromosomes?

(A) They are made up of DNA

(B) They are the building blocks of cells

(C) They are translated into nucleotides

(D) All of the above

7. When doing twin studies, what do researchers assume?

(A) Identical twins share the same genes

(B) Identical twins share the same environment

(C) A and B

(D) None of the above

8. Trait similarities between twins separated at birth may be due not only to genes. Why?

(A) Such twins shared a similar prenatal environment before they were born

(B) Adoption agencies may place twins in similar households

(C) Similarities in appearance and genetically inherited abilities may evoke similar responses from people

(D) All of the above

9. What is one characteristic feature of a polygynous mating system?

(A) Females compete with other females to gain access to males

(B) Males compete with other males to gain access to females

(C) Males compete with females to gain access to territory

(D) Males compete with females to gain access to food

10. What concept explains the tendency of certain organisms to sacrifice themselves to save others in the species?

(A) Mutation

(B) Heritability

(C) Inclusive fitness

(D) Reproductive adaptation