Evidence for Evolution

Front

What does common ancestry mean in the context of evolution?

Back

Common ancestry refers to the idea that two or more species share a recent common ancestor, meaning they have evolved from the same ancestral species.

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Homologous structures are body parts in different species that have similar structures and origins but may serve different functions, indicating a common ancestry.

Front

Give an example of homologous structures.

Back

An example of homologous structures is the whale flipper and the bat wing, which have similar bone structures but are adapted for different functions.

Front

What are homologous structures indicative of?

Back

Homologous structures indicate evolutionary relationships and common ancestry among different species.

Front

What is embryology in the context of evolution?

Back

Embryology is the study of embryos and their development, which can provide evidence for evolution by showing similarities in early stages of development among different species.

Front

What can be inferred from the similarities in mammal embryos during the third embryonic stage?

Back

Mammal embryos have more characteristics in common with each other than with reptiles or birds, indicating a closer evolutionary relationship.

Front

What is a common ancestor?

Back

A common ancestor is the most recent ancestral form or species from which two different species have evolved.

Front

How does variation contribute to evolution?

Back

Variation provides the raw material for natural selection, allowing certain traits to be favored over others, leading to evolutionary changes.

Front

What is the significance of fossil evidence in supporting evolution?

Back

Fossil evidence provides a historical record of life on Earth, showing how species have changed over time and supporting the theory of evolution.

Front

What role does natural selection play in evolution?

Back

Natural selection is the process by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species.