1.
Which rank contains the largest number of organisms?
Correct Answer
C. Class
Explanation
The rank that contains the largest number of organisms is the Class. In biological classification, organisms are grouped into different ranks based on their characteristics and evolutionary relationships. The Class rank is higher than the Genus and Species ranks, and it typically includes multiple Orders and many different species within those Orders. Therefore, the Class rank tends to have a larger number of organisms compared to the other ranks listed.
2.
The name "Tursiops truncatus" includes which of the following ranks?
Correct Answer
A. Genus and species
Explanation
The name "Tursiops truncatus" follows the binomial nomenclature system, which includes the genus and species ranks. In this case, "Tursiops" represents the genus, while "truncatus" represents the species. This system is used in taxonomy to classify and identify organisms based on their unique characteristics and evolutionary relationships.
3.
Which of the following is always true of two organisms in the same taxonomic class?
Correct Answer
B. They have certain physical features in common
Explanation
Organisms in the same taxonomic class share certain physical features in common because taxonomic classification is based on similarities in their characteristics. These physical features can include anatomical structures, physiological processes, and genetic traits. While organisms in the same taxonomic class may not always be able to breed with each other, live in the same ecosystem, or evolve at the same rate, the presence of shared physical features is a consistent characteristic among them.
4.
How is the "domain" rank different from other ranks?
Correct Answer
A. It was created more recently
Explanation
The "domain" rank is different from other ranks because it was created more recently. This suggests that the concept of domains is a relatively new addition to the classification system. In contrast, the other options - "It has existed longer," "It contains fewer organisms," and "It does not include animals" - do not accurately describe the difference between the "domain" rank and other ranks.
5.
In contrast to archaebacteria, all eukaryotic organisms:
Correct Answer
C. Have cell nuclei
Explanation
Eukaryotic organisms are distinguished by having cell nuclei, which is a key characteristic that sets them apart from archaebacteria. This means that their genetic material is enclosed within a membrane-bound nucleus. While some eukaryotes are multicellular, reproduce sexually, and breathe oxygen, these traits are not universal to all eukaryotes. The presence of cell nuclei, however, is a defining feature of eukaryotic organisms.
6.
What is the binomial name of Blue Whale?
Correct Answer
D. Balaenoptera musculus
Explanation
The binomial name of the organism pictured is Balaenoptera musculus. Binomial nomenclature is a naming system used in biology to give each species a unique scientific name.
7.
All animals in phylum Chordata share which of the following features?
Correct Answer
C. Spines
Explanation
All animals in phylum Chordata share the feature of spines. This is because the presence of a notochord, which is a flexible rod-like structure, is a defining characteristic of animals in this phylum. The notochord provides support and structure to the body, and in some species, it develops into a spine or backbone. Therefore, the correct answer is spines.
8.
Scientific names are usually given in classical languages (like Latin). Which of the following can you infer is a true statement about classical languages?
Correct Answer
A. They were spoken in the ancient world
Explanation
Classical languages, like Latin, were spoken in the ancient world. This can be inferred from the fact that scientific names, which are usually given in classical languages, have their roots in ancient times. The use of classical languages in scientific nomenclature reflects their historical significance and the long-standing tradition of using these languages for scientific purposes.
9.
Place the following taxonomic ranks in order from most specific to least specific. A) Order; B) Phylum C) Family
Correct Answer
D. C, A, B
Explanation
The correct order from most specific to least specific is C, A, B. The family is a more specific taxonomic rank than the order, and the order is more specific than the phylum. Therefore, the correct order is C (family), A (order), B (phylum).
10.
Lions and house cats share some common features, but can't breed with one another. What can you infer about how they are classified?
Correct Answer
A. They belong to the same family, but different genera and species
Explanation
The fact that lions and house cats share some common features suggests that they belong to the same family. However, the inability to breed with one another indicates that they are different genera and species within that family. This means that they are closely related but have evolved to become distinct species.