Which is correct regarding human evolution ?

Options

A. Neanderthal Man is direct ancestor of humans
B. Homo-erectus is direct ancestor of man
C. Cro-Magnon Man was found in Ethiopia
D. Australopithecus is real ancestor of modern man.

Explanation

To determine which statement is correct regarding human evolution, we will analyze each statement provided in the question step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Evaluate the First Statement:**
- The statement claims that the Neanderthal man is a direct ancestor of modern humans.
- **Analysis:** Neanderthals (Homo sapiens Neanderthalensis) existed around 100,000 years ago, but there is no evidence that they evolved into modern humans (Homo sapiens). Instead, they are considered a separate branch that coexisted with early modern humans but did not directly lead to them.
- **Conclusion:** This statement is **incorrect**.

2. **Evaluate the Second Statement:**
- The statement claims that Homo erectus is the direct ancestor of modern humans.
- **Analysis:** Homo erectus appeared approximately 1.7 million years ago and had a brain capacity of 800-1300 cc. There is a significant gap in the fossil record before the emergence of the Cro-Magnon man (Homo sapiens fossilis) around 34,000 years ago. Therefore, Homo erectus cannot be considered a direct ancestor of modern humans.
- **Conclusion:** This statement is **incorrect**.

3. **Evaluate the Third Statement:**
- The statement claims that the Cro-Magnon man was found in Ethiopia.
- **Analysis:** The Cro-Magnon fossils were actually discovered in France in 1868 by the paleontologist Mac Gregor, not in Ethiopia.
- **Conclusion:** This statement is **incorrect**.

4. **Evaluate the Fourth Statement:**
- The statement claims that Australopithecus is the real ancestor of modern humans.
- **Analysis:** Australopithecus is considered one of the early ancestors of modern humans, having evolved approximately 5 million years ago. It is important to note that while Australopithecus is not a direct ancestor, it is often referred to as a "real ancestor" due to its evolutionary significance in the lineage leading to modern humans.
- **Conclusion:** This statement is **correct**.

### Final Answer:
The correct statement regarding human evolution is that **Australopithecus is the real ancestor of modern humans**.

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