Question

Read the following statements:
a. The cranial capacity of Homo habilis was $650 - 800$ c.c.
b. The cranial capacity of Homo erectus was about $900$c.c.
c. Around two mya Australopithecus probably lived in East African grasslands
d. During the ice age, Homo sapiens arose.
How many of the above statements are not incorrect?
A. Four
B. Three
C. Two
D. one

Answer 1

Hint:-The study of the early human fossils has helped us to understand human evolutionary history. After examining these fossils, scientists have noted the various adaptations that have led to the present-day human species called Homo sapiens. From apes that moved on four limbs, had brains that were smaller in size, and mostly lived on trees modern-day humans have come a long way.

Complete Answer:-Homo habilis is the earliest known, extinct member of the human genus Homo. They had features that were more advanced than the Australopithecus. They existed about $2.4 - 1.5$ million years ago. The study of their fossils showed that cranial capacity had increased to about $500 - 800$ c.c. Their feet were more like a human, and dental characteristics were also quite distinct in comparison to the Australopithecus. The name habilis indicates handyman and the Homo habilis were able to use their hands with much more precision.
Homo erectus species is considered to be the ancestors of the present-day humans. They inhabited the earth about \[1.9\] million years ago. Their cranial capacity increased to about $600 - 800$c.c while specimens found later also showed brain capacity as high as $1000$c.c. However, their brains were not as large as modern humans. They were called erectus because just like present-day humans they were able to walk upright.
Australopithecus afarensis inhabited the earth about two million years ago. It is believed that they lived in East African grasslands. Their features were a mixture of both apelike and human. For example, they had the facial structure of an ape but they could walk on two limbs.
Ice age began about $2.4$ million years ago and Homo sapiens came into existence about $2,00,000 - 3,00,000$ years ago. The ice age ended about \[11,500\] years ago. During the ice age, the earth experienced both low temperatures and warm periods. The poles and many other parts of the earth were covered with ice which then melted during warmer periods.

The correct option is (A). All four statements are not incorrect.

Note:- Today Homo sapiens are the largest species that inhabit the earth. Their large number has threatened the existence of several other species. Around a thousand species are lost per million per year because of humans. They have overexploited the natural resources and have destroyed the natural habitat of many flora and fauna. Climate change due to global warming, pollution are all present concerns.