Comparative Morphology for Evolution

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What is an analogous structure?

Back

An analogous structure is a body part that shares a common function but not a common structure. For example, a bat wing and a butterfly wing are both used for flying but are made differently.

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What is variation in biology?

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Variation refers to the genetic differences among individuals within the same species, which can lead to different traits.

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What is speciation?

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Speciation is the process by which new species are formed as a result of evolutionary changes over time.

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What evidence indicates extinction in the fossil record?

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The disappearance of a type of fossil in the fossil record indicates that the species is extinct.

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What type of organism typically leaves carbon fossils?

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Plants are the type of organisms that commonly leave carbon fossils behind.

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What is a homologous structure?

Back

A homologous structure is a body part that is similar in structure and position but may serve different functions in different species, indicating common ancestry.

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What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

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Homologous structures share a common ancestry and may have different functions, while analogous structures serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestry.

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What is adaptation in the context of evolution?

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Adaptation is a trait that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment, often resulting from natural selection.

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What is the significance of fossils in understanding evolution?

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Fossils provide evidence of past life forms and their changes over time, helping scientists understand the process of evolution and extinction.

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What does common ancestry mean?

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Common ancestry refers to the idea that different species share a common ancestor from which they have evolved.