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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 3.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In early reproducing molecules, what is the measure of "success"?
(a) That there are more copies of the molecule, whether they are accurate or not.
(b) That there are fewer ways for the molecule to be destroyed.
(c) That there are more molecules around that are like the molecule.
(d) That there are more chemical reactions that can use the molecule.

2. What apparently unselfish act of a bee does the author describe?
(a) Evacuating immature bees from an endangered hive.
(b) Fighting off predators who are near the queen.
(c) Losing its life to sting an intruder.
(d) Bringing back pollen to help feed the whole colony.

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

4. What apparently selfish act of the penguin does the author describe?
(a) Stealing food from a baby penguin's mouth.
(b) Hiding behind other penguins when a predator is spotted.
(c) Shoving each other to see who will fall off a cliff.
(d) Stealing other penguins' eggs.

5. What would molecules that grouped and built protective walls around themselves become?
(a) Single-celled organisms.
(b) Plants.
(c) Animals.
(d) Inorganic materials.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. What does Dawkins postulate maintains sexual reproduction as a feature?

3. What does Dawkins say that evolution is about?

4. How does the author say that human beings think of their own species?

5. What would competition between early self-copying molecules be over?

(see the answer key)

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