UNIT 2 - human evolution PDF

A set of vocabulary flashcards related to human evolution, addressing key concepts, terms, and definitions highlighted in the lecture notes.

Bipedalism

The ability to walk on two legs, a key characteristic that allows humans to use tools while keeping their hands free.

Hominid

Species descended from the most recent common ancestor of chimpanzees and humans, with only humans being living representatives today.

Homo sapiens

The species name for modern humans, characterized by complex brains and the ability to use sophisticated tools.

Common Ancestor

The shared ancestor from which species, such as humans and chimpanzees, evolved around 60-70 million years ago.

Tool Use

The ability to create and use tools which was evidenced by species like Australopithecus afarensis approximately 3.4 million years ago.

Cultural Evolution

The development of human culture, including languages, arts, rituals, and beliefs, that can influence biological evolution.

Evolutionary Misconception

The belief that humans evolved from apes, rather than sharing a common ancestor with them.

Lactose Tolerance

A genetic adaptation that allows some adult humans to digest lactose, evolving in populations that domesticated and consumed the milk of goats and cattle.

Genetic Diversity

The understanding that racial categories are socially constructed, with more variation within racial groups than between them.

Phylogeny

The evolutionary history and relationships among species, particularly in the context of human development from ancient ancestors.