Chapter 16, Problem 29A

Summary Introduction

Introduction : The remains or traces of ancient life which have been preserved over time by natural processes are known as fossils. Fossils are organized in the fossil record by estimating their ages and physical similarities.

Answer to Problem 29A

Correct answer :

The correct answer is Option (b) H. erectus.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer :

Option (b) H. erectus is the new evidences come from South Africa’s Wonderwerk Cave. They are the first hominid which uses fire, lived in caves and made tools like stone handaxes and other implements.

Explanation for incorrect answer :

Option (a), H. ergaster: H. ergaster is an extinct species or subspecies of archaic humans that have lived in Africa in the Early Plesitocene.

Option (c) H. neanderthalensis : These were evolved in Europe and Asia about 2,00,000 years ago from H. erectus .

Option (d) H. sapiens age 1,95,000 years ago to present. These moved to the areas that were inhabited by H. neanderthalensis about the same time.

Conclusion

Homo erectus is the first hominid species to likely first used fire, lived in caves and made tools.