Homologous & Analogous Structures Flashcard

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that are similar due to shared ancestry.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Structures in different species that serve similar functions but have different evolutionary origins.

Front

Give an example of homologous structures.

Back

The forelimbs of humans, birds, and whales.

Front

Give an example of analogous structures.

Back

The wings of birds and the wings of insects.

Front

What is the significance of homologous structures in evolutionary biology?

Back

They provide evidence for common ancestry among species.

Front

What is the significance of analogous structures in evolutionary biology?

Back

They demonstrate how different species can evolve similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.

Front

True or False: Homologous structures have the same function in different species.

Back

False, they may have different functions.

Front

True or False: Analogous structures arise from convergent evolution.

Back

True, they evolve independently in different species.

Front

What is an example of a vestigial structure?

Back

The human appendix.

Front

What is the main difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures share a common ancestor; analogous structures do not.