Evolution is the process responsible for the vast diversity of life on Earth by natural selection and genetic changes over time.

Jean-Baptiste Lamarck was the first to propose a comprehensive theory of evolution, though Darwin’s natural selection theory became more accepted.

Viroids are among the simplest known replicating entities, consisting of small RNA molecules without a protein coat, considered early life forms.

Aristotle believed in the 'Great Chain of Being,' where life forms were arranged from simple to complex, and some organisms could transform into others.

Methanopyrus kandleri belongs to the domain Archaea, known for surviving in extreme environments like hydrothermal vents.

Spirochetes are believed to have contributed to the evolution of flagella through symbiotic relationships in early eukaryotic cells.

Linnaeus supported the idea of special creation, believing that species were created in their present forms and did not evolve.

All listed statements (mitochondria multiply by binary fission, have circular DNA, and 70s ribosomes) support the endosymbiotic theory, suggesting mitochondria originated as symbiotic bacteria.

Speciation occurs when two populations can no longer interbreed and produce fertile offspring, leading to separate species.

Cuvier is known for his work in paleontology and catastrophism, not inheritance, which is associated with Lamarck or Mendel.

Natural selection is driven by differential survival and reproduction, where individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Georges Cuvier proposed catastrophism, suggesting that Earth's history was shaped by sudden, short-lived, violent events.

Symbiosis, particularly endosymbiosis, played a key role in the evolution of eukaryotic cells from prokaryotic ancestors, e.g., mitochondria.

Thomas Malthus wrote 'An Essay on the Principle of Population,' which influenced Darwin’s ideas on natural selection.

Jean-Baptiste Lamarck was associated with the Natural History Museum in Paris, France.

Lamarckism suggests that acquired traits, such as giraffes’ long necks, human bipedalism, or loss of tails, could be passed to offspring.

Lamarck proposed the theory of inheritance of acquired characteristics, though it was later disproven by modern genetics.

While Lamarck’s theory of acquired traits was incorrect, his idea that organisms adapt to their environment over time aligns with modern evolutionary theory.

Darwin’s theory was informed by fossil records, geological formations (via Lyell’s work), and variations in domesticated species, observed during his travels.

Lamarck’s theory suggested that individuals could gain or lose traits based on use and disuse, and these acquired characteristics would be passed on to their offspring.