STAAR Review Biology Category 3

Front

What is a homologous structure?

Back

A homologous structure is an anatomical feature in different species that is similar in structure but may serve different functions, indicating a common ancestor.

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A vestigial structure is a body part that has lost its original function through evolution, such as the human appendix.

Front

What is the scientific name of an organism composed of?

Back

The scientific name of an organism is made up of the genus and species name.

Front

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

Back

It suggests that these organisms share a common ancestor.

Front

What hypothesis does Charles Darwin's observation of finches on the Galápagos Islands support?

Back

It supports the hypothesis that these finches descended from a common ancestor.

Front

Which organisms are least closely related?

Back

Organisms that share a domain are least closely related compared to those that share a family, genus, or species.

Front

What is the significance of the genus in biological classification?

Back

The genus is a rank in the biological classification that groups species that are closely related and share a common ancestor.

Front

What is the difference between a domain and a kingdom in biological classification?

Back

A domain is the highest taxonomic rank, which includes multiple kingdoms, while a kingdom is a rank below domain that groups organisms based on more specific characteristics.

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

Natural selection is the process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Front

What is the role of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations are changes in DNA that can lead to new traits in organisms, providing raw material for evolution.