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Multiple Choice
Which of the following traits distinguishes hominins from other apes?
A
The use of tools
B
The use of fire
C
An enlarged brain (relative to body size)
D
The absence of a tail
E
Bipedalism (upright walking)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the term 'hominins'. Hominins refer to the group consisting of modern humans, extinct human species, and all our immediate ancestors.
Consider the traits listed in the problem: the use of tools, the use of fire, an enlarged brain relative to body size, and the absence of a tail. These traits are associated with various evolutionary developments in primates.
Focus on the trait 'bipedalism', which is the ability to walk upright on two legs. This is a key characteristic that distinguishes hominins from other apes.
Bipedalism is significant because it represents a major shift in locomotion and is associated with various anatomical changes, such as the structure of the pelvis and lower limbs.
Reflect on how bipedalism has influenced other aspects of hominin evolution, including the development of larger brains and the use of tools, but recognize that bipedalism itself is the primary distinguishing trait.