Chapter 16, Problem 25A

Summary Introduction

To replace:

The correct vocabulary term in place of the underlined word.

Introduction:

The genus Homo includes living modern humans and the extinct primitive extinct humans, the Neanderthals. Some scientists propose that the modern humans evolved from several dispersed populations of early Homo species at the same time in different areas of the world.

Answer to Problem 25A

H. sapiens is the scientific name of modern humans.

Explanation of Solution

The species that displaced the Neanderthals, Homo sapiens is the scientific name of modern humans. They are characterized by a more slender appearance than all other Homo species. They have thinner skeletons, rounder skulls and smaller faces with prominent chins. They also are the first species to control fire and to modify stones for tool use. As they evolved, they developed language and culture.