Question

Identify the statements that correctly describe Darwin's Theory of Evolution.
(i) Overproduction of organisms leads to competition.
(ii) Variation is inherited and causes evolution.
(iii) Acquired characters are inherited.
(iv) Survival depends on favourable traits.
(v) New species arise due to accumulation of favourable variations.
Choose the correct option.

• A. (i), (ii), (iv) and (v) are correct
• B. (ii), (iii) and (iv) are correct
• C. All are correct
• D. Only (i) and (iv) are correct

Hint:

To solve questions about Darwin vs. Lamarck quickly, look for the phrase "acquired characters." This phrase is a hallmark of Lamarckism. You can immediately cross out any option containing statement (iii), which instantly leaves option (A) as the only possible answer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question requires us to evaluate five statements about evolutionary mechanics and select the option containing only the principles that align with Charles Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Darwin's core framework rests on several interconnected logical observations:
1. Overproduction of offspring beyond what the environment can support.
2. Limited natural resources, which creates a competitive struggle for existence.
3. Pre-existing phenotypic variations within any population.
4. Natural selection, where individuals with favorable variations survive and reproduce more successfully.
5. Speciation via the gradual accumulation of these inherited favorable variations over generations.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze each statement based on Darwinian principles:
* Statement (i): "Overproduction of organisms leads to competition." This is a true statement. Darwin noted that populations grow geometrically, while resources grow arithmetically, causing a struggle for survival.
* Statement (ii): "Variation is inherited and causes evolution." This is true. Darwin recognized that variations must be heritable to serve as raw material for natural selection.
* Statement (iii): "Acquired characters are inherited." This is false. The inheritance of acquired characteristics (use and disuse) is the central concept of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck's evolutionary theory, which Darwin rejected.
* Statement (iv): "Survival depends on favourable traits." This is true. This statement describes differential survival, or "survival of the fittest."
* Statement (v): "New species arise due to accumulation of favourable variations." This is true. Darwin stated that gradual, continuous adaptations accumulate over long periods, leading to speciation.
Since statements (i), (ii), (iv), and (v) are completely accurate and statement (iii) is incorrect, option (A) is the correct choice.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The statements that correctly describe Darwin's theory are (i), (ii), (iv), and (v), corresponding to option (A).