Question

State Lamarck’s theory of evolution.

Answer 1

Lamarck’s theory states that organisms evolve from pre-existing organisms through gradual modifications caused by environmental changes and new needs. The theory is based on the following principles:

1. Internal vital force: Organisms have an internal tendency to increase in size and complexity.
2. Environmental effect and new needs: Changes in the environment create new needs and habits in organisms.
3. Use and disuse of organs: Continuous use of an organ makes it more developed, while disuse causes it to become weak or degenerate.
4. Inheritance of acquired characters: Characters acquired during the lifetime of an organism are passed on to the next generation.
5. Formation of new species: Accumulation of acquired characters over generations results in the evolution of new species.