Recent Research on the Origins of Language Suggests That a Key

question 9

Multiple Choice

Recent research on the origins of language suggests that a key mutation might have something to do with it.Comparing chimp and human genomes,it appears that

• A) chimps lack the tongue-rolling gene that all humans have, which might explain why they struggle to achieve clear speech.
• B) chimps share with humans all the genetic propensities for language but lack the language-activation mutation.
• C) a speech-friendly mutation occurred among Neandertals in Europe and spread to other human populations through gene flow.
• D) the speech-friendly form of FOXP2 took hold in humans some 150,000 years ago, thus conferring selective advantages (linguistic and cultural abilities) that allowed those who had it to spread it, at the expense of those who did not.
• E) the speech mutation occurred even before the hominin line split from the rest of the hominids.

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Definitions:

π Bonds

Covalent bonds formed by the sideways overlap of two p-orbitals, containing a pair of electrons located above and below the axis of the bonded atoms.

Hybridization

A concept in chemistry where atomic orbitals mix to form new hybrid orbitals, explaining the geometry of molecular bonding.

Indicated Atom

A specific atom within a molecule that is highlighted or referenced, typically in the context of chemical reactions or structural discussions.

Hybridization

A concept in molecular chemistry that describes the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for the pairing of electrons to form chemical bonds.