Comparative Anatomy

Front

What is the purpose of examining anatomical features in the study of evolution?

Back

To uncover relationships between ancient and current species.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Body parts with similar structure but different functions.

Front

What does the similarity in the bone structure of the forelimbs of humans, bats, whales, and cats suggest?

Back

These species share a common evolutionary ancestry.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Body parts that serve similar functions but have different origins and structures.

Front

What role do vestigial structures play in understanding evolution?

Back

They provide evidence of an organism's evolutionary history.

Front

Define comparative anatomy.

Back

The study of similarities and differences in the anatomy of different species.

Front

What is the significance of studying vestigial structures in evolution?

Back

They indicate traits that were once useful but are no longer necessary.

Front

How do homologous structures support the theory of evolution?

Back

They demonstrate how different species can evolve from a common ancestor.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures have a common origin but different functions; analogous structures have different origins but similar functions.

Front

Give an example of a vestigial structure in humans.

Back

The appendix is a vestigial structure in humans.