Which of the following phenomena might have influenced the evolution of organisms?

  1. Continental drift
  2. Glacial cycles

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2014 Prelims]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2


Answer: (c)

Explanation:

  • The theory of continental drift explains the arrangement of continents and oceans on Earth.
  • It suggests that all land masses were once united as a single supercontinent called Pangea, which was surrounded by a large ocean called Panthalassa.
  • Over time, Pangea split into two large land masses, Laurasia and Gondwanaland, which eventually fragmented into smaller continents that exist today.
  • This process of continental drift is believed to have influenced the distribution of animals across different continents and influenced their evolution.
  • The evolution of organisms may have also been affected by glacial cycles.
  • Organisms that could not tolerate extreme cold may have become extinct, while others may have adapted to survive.
  • Additionally, the rise in sea level due to glacial melting could have impacted the evolution of organisms living in coastal areas.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.

Consider the following statements:                                                                   The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

Read More »

Consider the following statements:                                                         The Parliament of India can place a particular law in the Ninth Schedule of the Constitution of India. The validity of a law placed in the Ninth Schedule cannot be examined by any court and no judgement can be made on it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following statements:                                               

Read More »

Useful Links

Download
Neyyar App

Left Menu Icon