Question

During the middle of the 19th century, which scientist independently derived and proposed a theory of evolution that was similar to Darwin's? A. Gregor Mendel B. Alfred Wallace C. Isaac Newton D. Rachel Carson E. Niels Bohr

Short answer

B. Alfred Wallace

Step-by-step solution

Identify the given options

List out the provided options: Gregor Mendel, Alfred Wallace, Isaac Newton, Rachel Carson, and Niels Bohr.

Recall historical figures in evolution

Remember that Charles Darwin is famous for his theory of evolution, which he published in 'On the Origin of Species' in 1859. Identify contemporaries who worked on similar theories.

Eliminate obviously incorrect options

Eliminate Isaac Newton (physicist from the 17th century), Rachel Carson (20th-century environmentalist), and Niels Bohr (20th-century physicist).

Consider remaining scientists

Gregor Mendel is known for his work on genetics and inheritance patterns, not evolution. Alfred Wallace independently formulated a theory of evolution by natural selection around the same time as Darwin.

Select the correct answer

Based on historical context, the correct answer is Alfred Wallace.

Key concepts

Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin is a key figure in the field of evolutionary biology. He is best known for his book, 'On the Origin of Species,' published in 1859. Darwin's work laid the foundation for our understanding of how species evolve over time. He proposed the idea of natural selection, which explains how traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in successive generations.
Darwin's journey aboard the HMS Beagle allowed him to observe various species and gather evidence that shaped his thinking. His observations of finches on the Galápagos Islands were particularly influential. He noted how these birds had different beak shapes, each suited to their specific diets.
Darwin faced significant opposition at first, but his ideas gradually gained acceptance. Today, his contributions are celebrated as crucial milestones in science.

Alfred Wallace

Alfred Wallace was a British naturalist who made significant contributions to the field of biology. Like Charles Darwin, Wallace developed a theory of evolution based on natural selection. He independently arrived at similar conclusions around the same time. In fact, Wallace's correspondence with Darwin prompted Darwin to publish his own findings.
Wallace's work focused on biogeography—the study of how species are distributed across different regions. He spent years in Southeast Asia, where he observed diverse wildlife. His findings highlighted the role of environmental factors in shaping the evolution of species.
Despite his substantial contributions, Wallace did not achieve the same level of fame as Darwin. Nonetheless, historians recognize his invaluable role in advancing evolutionary science.

Theory of Evolution

The theory of evolution is one of the most important concepts in biology. It explains how species change over time through processes like mutation, selection, and genetic drift. The theory posits that all life on Earth shares a common ancestor.
At its core, the theory of evolution suggests that:

• Individuals within a species show variation in traits
• These traits can be passed from one generation to the next
• Some traits give individuals an advantage in survival and reproduction
• Over time, advantageous traits become more common in the population

This process can eventually lead to the emergence of new species. The theory of evolution provides a unifying framework for understanding the diversity of life.

Natural Selection

Natural selection is the mechanism that drives evolution. According to this concept, individuals with traits that are better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. These traits thus become more prevalent over generations.
Key elements of natural selection include:

• Variation: Individuals in a population differ in their traits.
• Inheritance: Some of these traits are heritable and passed down to offspring.
• Selection: Environmental pressures make certain traits advantageous for survival and reproduction.
• Time: Over long periods, these advantageous traits become more common.

A classic example of natural selection is the peppered moth. During the Industrial Revolution in England, moths with darker coloration became more common due to the sooty environment. This was because darker moths were less visible to predators.
Natural selection allows populations to adapt to changing environments, ensuring the survival of species over time.