Evidence of Evolution

Front

What is the evidence of evolution?

Back

Evidence of evolution includes fossil records, DNA similarities, homologous structures, and vestigial structures that show how species have changed over time.

Front

Which species’ DNA is most similar to the DNA of the toothed whale?

Back

Baleen Whale

Front

What are homologous structures?

Back

Homologous structures are features in different organisms that share a common ancestry but may serve different functions, such as the forelimbs of humans and whales.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Vestigial structures are reduced forms of functional structures in one organism that are fully functional in another, like the human tailbone.

Front

What are analogous structures?

Back

Analogous structures are features in different species that serve similar functions but do not share a common ancestry, such as the wings of birds and insects.

Front

What conclusion can be drawn from DNA similarities among species?

Back

Species with more similar DNA are likely to be more closely related and share a more recent common ancestor.

Front

What is the significance of fossil records in evolution?

Back

Fossil records provide evidence of past life forms and show the gradual changes in species over time, supporting the theory of evolution.

Front

How do embryological similarities provide evidence for evolution?

Back

Embryological similarities among different species suggest that they share a common ancestor, as early developmental stages are often similar.

Front

What is the role of natural selection in evolution?

Back

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

Front

What is a common ancestor?

Back

A common ancestor is a species from which two or more different species have evolved, indicating a shared evolutionary history.