Which evidence supports the idea of humans evolving from multiple populations?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 3 Biology – Human Evolution Exam. Use quizzes, flashcards, and detailed explanations to ensure success. Master key concepts and get ready with confidence!

High DNA variation among human populations supports the idea of humans evolving from multiple populations because it indicates that there has been significant genetic diversity within and between different groups. This variation suggests a complex evolutionary history where different populations adapted to various environments over time, potentially leading to distinct genetic traits.

The presence of diverse genes across different populations implies that rather than a single origin, humans may have evolved simultaneously in multiple places, contributing to the genetic mosaic we observe today. This genetic evidence aligns with theories such as the "multiregional hypothesis," which posits that modern humans arose from earlier hominins in various regions, ensuring a blending of genetic traits.

In contrast, the other choices point to concepts that do not inherently support the idea of multiple origins for humans. Fossils exclusively found in Africa suggest a single point of origin, while language divergence reflects cultural evolution rather than biological ancestry. Climatic changes could influence human development but do not provide direct evidence for the idea of multiple evolving populations.

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