Evidence of Evolution

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures that have similar anatomy but may have different functions, indicating a common ancestor.

Front

What conclusion can be drawn from vestigial pelvic and leg bones in modern whales?

Back

The ancestors of whales may have been land mammals.

Front

What is comparative embryology?

Back

The study of the similarities and differences in the embryos of different species, providing evidence for evolution.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures that are similar in function but not in anatomical structure, indicating convergent evolution.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Body parts that have lost their original function through evolution.

Front

Give an example of homologous structures.

Back

The forelimbs of humans, whales, and bats, which have different functions but similar bone structures.

Front

What is the significance of fossils in understanding evolution?

Back

Fossils provide evidence of past life forms and their changes over time, supporting the theory of evolution.

Front

What does the term 'natural selection' mean?

Back

The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of DNA in evolution?

Back

DNA carries genetic information that can mutate and change over generations, leading to evolution.