Using various resources such as your sch | Class 12 Biology Chapter Evolution, Evolution NCERT Solutions

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology - Chapter Evolution. This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Exercise 1, Question 10: . With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.

Question 10: Using various resources such as your school library or the internet and discussions with your teacher, trace the evolutionary stages of any one animal say horse.
Answer:

The evolution of horse started with Eohippus during Eocene period. It involved the following evolutionary stages.

(i) Gradual increase in body size

(ii) Elongation of head and neck region

(iii) Increase in the length of limbs and feet

(iv) Gradual reduction of lateral digits

(v) Enlargement of third functional toe

(vi) Strengthening of the back

(vii) Development of brain and sensory organs

(viii) Increase in the complexity of teeth for feeding on grass

The evolution of horse is represented as

evolution of horse

(i) Eohippus

It had a short head and neck. It had four functional toes and a splint of 1 and 5 on each hind limb and a splint of 1 and 3 in each forelimb. The molars were short crowned that were adapted for grinding the plant diet.

(ii) Mesohippus

It was slightly taller than Eohippus. It had three toes in each foot.

(iii) Merychippus

It had the size of approximately 100 cm. Although it still had three toes in each foot, but it could run on one toe. The side toe did not touch the ground. The molars were adapted for chewing the grass.

(iv) Pliohippus

It resembled the modern horse and was around 108 cm tall. It had a single functional toe with splint of 2nd and 4th in each limb.

(v) Equus

Pliohippus gave rise to Equus or the modern horse with one toe in each foot. They have incisors for cutting grass and molars for grinding food.


Study Tips for Answering NCERT Questions:

NCERT questions are designed to test your understanding of the concepts and theories discussed in the chapter. Here are some tips to help you answer NCERT questions effectively:

  • Read the question carefully and focus on the core concept being asked.
  • Reference examples and data from the chapter when answering questions about Evolution.
  • Review previous year question papers to get an idea of how such questions may be framed in exams.
  • Practice answering questions within the time limit to improve your speed and accuracy.
  • Discuss your answers with your teachers or peers to get feedback and improve your understanding.

Latest Blog Posts

Stay updated with our latest educational content and study tips

Government Jobs by Age Limit: Eligibility and Opportunities in 2026

Government jobs continue to be one of the most popular employment options in India because of their job security, regular salary, pension benefits, and promotion prospects. However, one of the most frequent doubts of aspirants is age eligibility. Countless candidates are discouraged from applying for Government positions – or even from preparing for them – … Read more

Read More

NEET & JEE Preparation Guide for State Board Students

After preparation for NEET and JEE, students inclined towards studying under state education boards find themselves a step behind the CBSE students. The syllabus, question pattern and level of idea of these national entrance exams varies widely from most state board syllabus. But with the correct approach, students taking the state board can hold their … Read more

Read More

Simple and Compound Interest Formulas with Questions

Interest is one of the most significant ideas in maths and financial calculations. It is very common in banking, loan applications, investments, saving account and competitive exams. Simple Interest and Compound Interest make it easier to find out how much more is earned and/or paid on a principal during the period of time. These Interest … Read more

Read More

Spoken English Course Topics for Beginners in 2026

In 2026, students, professionals, and job seekers must have a high level of spoken English. Spoken English is a beginner level course to enhance learners’ communication skills in English, their pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar structure and confidence in speaking English fluently. Today, the emphasis of spoken English courses is placed on actual conversations, everyday speech practice … Read more

Read More

Comments

  • Misha
  • Jun 13, 2018

Thanks a lot...


Add Comment

Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 12 Biology - Chapter . This page offers a step-by-step solution to the specific question from Excercise 1 , Question 10: Using various resources such as your school library or the internet and discussions with your teache....