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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 2.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does Darwin characterize the idea that the goal of evolution is for a species to survive, so individuals will take actions that are good for the species?
(a) As fundamental to evolution.
(b) As a reasonable alternative hypothesis.
(c) As probable.
(d) As unscientific.

2. What shape does the author say water molecules in space make?
(a) Octagonal.
(b) Round.
(c) Spiral.
(d) Elliptical.

3. What would give longevity to early self-duplicating molecules, according to Dawkins?
(a) Greater stability.
(b) Greater flexibility.
(c) Smaller numbers of elements.
(d) Larger numbers of components.

4. Why does Dawkins say kind or cooperative behavior arises?
(a) Because it promotes the good of the whole species.
(b) Because other kind or cooperative behavior promotes it.
(c) Because other factors besides natural selection are in play.
(d) Because it allows a gene to achieve a selfish goal.

5. What apparently unselfish behavior of small birds does the author describe?
(a) Staying awake to warn the flock of approaching predators.
(b) Protecting another bird's eggs.
(c) Bringing excess food to others in the flock.
(d) Drawing the attention of a hawk to itself and away from the flock.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does the author use the word "apparently" to describe selfish or unselfish behavior?

2. What would molecules that started to manufacture energy using the sun eventually become?

3. What would molecules that broke down other self-copying molecules and used their parts eventually become?

4. What two opposites does Dawkins say he is examining the biology of?

5. What apparently selfish act of gulls does the author describe?

(see the answer key)

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