Darwin's work confirmed

Options

A. Evolution through acquired characteristics
B. That the cell is the basic unit of life
C. The unity and diversity of life
D. None of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Darwin's Contribution**: Charles Darwin's work primarily focused on the theory of evolution, which explains how species evolve over time through natural selection. His ideas confirmed the concept of the unity and diversity of life.

2. **Descent from a Common Ancestor**: One of the key points in Darwin's work is the idea that all living organisms share a common ancestor. This concept explains the unity of life, as it suggests that despite the vast diversity of species, they all originate from a single source.

3. **Common Cellular Structures**: Darwin also emphasized that living organisms share common cellular structures and chemistry. This includes fundamental components such as DNA, RNA, and cell membranes. These shared characteristics indicate a common biological heritage among different species.

4. **Environmental Influence on Diversity**: Darwin pointed out that the diversity of life can be explained by the varying environments in which organisms live. Different environmental pressures lead to adaptations in species, resulting in the vast array of life forms we see today.

5. **Conclusion**: In summary, Darwin's work confirmed that the unity of life stems from a common ancestor, and the diversity of life is influenced by environmental factors. This understanding is encapsulated in the idea of the unity and diversity of life.