Evidence of Evolution

Front

What does the similarity in bone arrangements among different organisms suggest?

Back

These organisms share a common ancestor.

Front

What is an example of a vestigial structure in humans?

Back

The tailbone of a human.

Front

How can the hind leg bones of whales be described?

Back

The bones are vestigial structures that had a function in an ancestor.

Front

What are structures called that have similar anatomy but different functions due to a common ancestor?

Back

Homologous structures.

Front

What is the study of embryos of various organisms used to demonstrate?

Back

It shows a common ancestor because of similarities in development.

Front

What is the significance of homologous structures in evolutionary biology?

Back

They provide evidence of a common ancestor despite different functions.

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A structure that has lost most or all of its original function through the course of evolution.

Front

Can you name a vestigial structure in whales?

Back

The pelvic bones.

Front

What does embryology reveal about evolutionary relationships?

Back

It shows similarities in development among different species, indicating a common ancestor.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures share a common ancestry, while analogous structures have similar functions but different evolutionary origins.