Evidence of Evolution

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that share a common ancestor, having similar anatomy but different functions.

Front

What is an example of homologous structures?

Back

The forelimbs of humans, whales, and bats.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that have similar functions but different anatomical structures, indicating convergent evolution.

Front

What is an example of analogous structures?

Back

The wings of birds and the wings of insects.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Body parts that have lost their original function through evolution.

Front

What is an example of a vestigial structure?

Back

The tailbone in humans.

Front

What does embryology study in the context of evolution?

Back

The development of embryos in different species, showing similarities that suggest common ancestry.

Front

What is a cladogram?

Back

A diagram that shows the evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics.

Front

What is the significance of DNA similarities in evolutionary biology?

Back

Similarities in DNA sequences among species provide evidence for common ancestry.

Front

Which species is most closely related to the toothed whale?

Back

The baleen whale.