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Which of the following features or characteristics demonstrate the potential for the earliest hominins to climb?

A) Bipedalism and a forward-facing foramen magnum
B) Large brain size and advanced tool use
C) Short arms and long legs
D) Opposable thumbs and loss of the big toe

User Taynaron
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Final answer:

The features among the given options that suggest the potential for climbing in early hominins are opposable thumbs and the loss of a divergent big toe. These adaptations are crucial for grasping and climbing in trees.

Step-by-step explanation:

The earliest hominins displayed certain physical characteristics that suggest their potential for climbing. Among the choices provided, the features that demonstrate a potential for climbing are opposable thumbs and the loss of a divergent big toe. Opposable thumbs allow primates to grasp branches firmly, which is essential for climbing trees. The other options such as bipedalism and forward-facing foramen magnum are related to traits that facilitate upright walking on two legs. Large brain size and advanced tool use, and short arms and long legs are also features associated with later hominins that were more terrestrial.

Looking at the evolution of huminins, traits that would be indicative of climbing abilities include long and curved fingers and toes, a more mobile shoulder joint, and a robust body adapted for moving through trees. In comparison, features like bipedality, a broader pelvis, longer legs, and a more upright posture are adaptations for walking on land.

User JoelC
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