Jean-Baptiste Lamarck Proposed That Changes in the Characteristics of a Population

question 7

Multiple Choice

Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed that changes in the characteristics of a population are a result of traits acquired during an organism's lifetime being inherited by that organism's offspring.What is wrong with this proposal?

• A) Only changes in the DNA sequence of an organism can be inherited. Traits that are acquired throughout life generally do not alter DNA.
• B) The environment chooses which traits are necessary for survival, rather than the individual.
• C) Changes in a species occur at the individual level rather than the population level.
• D) The inheritance of acquired traits would not lead to speciation, because it would cause all the individuals in a population to become more similar.

---

Definitions:

Established Order

The existing, often longstanding social, political, or religious system or structures in a society.

On the Origins of Species

A seminal work by Charles Darwin, published in 1859, which introduced the scientific theory of evolution by natural selection, revolutionizing biology.

Charles Darwin

A British naturalist who proposed the theory of biological evolution by natural selection, documented in his 1859 book "On the Origin of Species".

Competition

The rivalry among businesses or individuals for resources, recognition, or market dominance, which can drive innovation and efficiency.