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loe evolution lec 8
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are five unique traits of humans compared to other primates? | Bipedal locomotion. Complex tool use. Language capabilities. Large brains. Loss of fur. |
| Why did bipedalism evolve? | Environmental changes from forest to savanna made upright walking more efficient for movement and heat dissipation. |
| What are the physiological adaptations for bipedalism? | Modified hips, knees, and limb proportions. Longer and stronger legs compared to arms. Arched feet for support. |
| What is the “East Side Story” hypothesis? | Around 8 million years ago, the Great Rift Valley isolated East Africa. Apes in the lush west remained tree-dwelling, while pre-humans in the east adapted to bipedalism due to drier environments. |
| What are the benefits of bipedalism? | Frees hands for tool use and food gathering. Greater energy efficiency for long-distance travel. |
| What are the benefits of larger brain sizes in humans? | Enhanced memory and cognitive abilities. Improved tool-making capabilities. Capacity for advanced language and communication. |
| What is the energy cost of larger brains? | Brain functions require 20-25% of resting energy, demanding a richer diet. |
| What distinguishes human tool use from other animals? | Humans create and use complex, sophisticated tools. |
| What are Oldowan tools? | The oldest known stone tools, dating back 2.5-2.6 million years, signifying early innovation. |
| How is the hyoid bone connected to speech? | Its structure supports speech but increases choking risk due to its descent. |
| What brain regions are involved in language? | Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas, primarily in the left hemisphere. |
| When is language evolution believed to have started? | Approximately 2 million years ago. |
| Why did humans lose fur? | To prevent overheating and enable efficient sweating in hot climates. |
| What hypothesis is less supported regarding fur loss? | The aquatic ape hypothesis. |
| How does domestication benefit humans beyond food? | Provides resources for transportation, protection, and societal organization. |
| What early architectural site highlights societal progression? | Göbekli Tepe, showcasing early construction and social organization. |
| What interconnected traits define human evolution? | Bipedalism, brain enlargement, tool use, language, and fur loss. |
| How does the progression of civilization reflect human adaptation? | Through transformative behaviors like cooking, tool-making, transportation, and architecture. |