Evolution - Bipedalism

What does bipedal refer to?

Organisms that walk on two legs.

What is the function of the canine tooth?

It is a pointed tooth for tearing food.

What does cranial capacity indicate?

It indicates brain size by measuring the internal volume of the cranium.

What is the cranium?

The part of the skull that encloses the brain.

What does the term evolve mean?

To develop gradually through natural selection.

What does the foramen magnum signify in relation to an organism's posture?

Its position indicates whether the organism is bipedal or quadrupedal.

What are hominids?

They include all great apes, such as humans, chimpanzees, and gorillas.

What distinguishes hominins from hominids?

Hominins are a subset of hominids leading to humans, characterized by bipedalism.

What is an index in the context of measurement?

A ratio comparing measurements.

Name the upper jawbone.

Maxilla.

What is an orbit?

The eye socket.

What is the palate?

The roof of the mouth.

What is the skull?

The framework of bones enclosing the brain.

How do human skulls differ from chimpanzee skulls regarding cranial capacity?

Humans have a larger cranial capacity compared to chimpanzees.

What distinguishes human teeth structure from that of chimpanzees?

Human teeth are contained within the jaw, while chimpanzee teeth may extend outside the jaw.

What is the opisthion index, and how does it relate to bipedalism?

It is key for determining bipedalism, with higher values indicating upright walking.

What is the cranial capacity of humans?

1,030 cm³.

What cranial capacity do chimpanzees have?

450 cm³.

Which hominin had the largest cranial capacity?

Homo sapiens neanderthalensis with 1,125 cm³.

Why is cranial capacity important?

It reflects brain size and is linked to cognitive abilities.

Which early species exhibited bipedal traits but less adaptation?

A. afarensis and A. africanus.

What features characterize human foreheads?

Humans have a large, vertical forehead with space for a developed frontal lobe.

How does the position of the foramen magnum help identify species' movement?

A central position indicates bipedalism, while a rearward position indicates knuckle-walking.

What does the position of the foramen magnum suggest in bipedal species?

It is near the center, indicating efficient upright posture.

What is the association between a rearward foramen magnum position and posture?

It suggests knuckle-walking or quadrupedal movement.