Evidence for Evolution

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What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A vestigial structure is a body part that has lost its original function through evolution. An example is the pelvis bone in whales.

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What is an analogous structure?

Back

An analogous structure is a body part that serves a similar function in different species but does not share a common evolutionary origin. An example is a penguin flipper and a fish fin.

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What is a homologous structure?

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A homologous structure is a body part that is similar in structure and position but may serve different functions in different species, indicating a common ancestor.

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What does evidence of a common ancestor imply?

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It implies that different species share a lineage and have evolved from a shared ancestral form.

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What is a common ancestor?

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

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What can vestigial pelvic and leg bones in whales indicate?

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They suggest that the ancestors of whales may have been land mammals.

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What is the significance of homologous structures in evolution?

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They provide evidence for the theory of evolution by showing how different species have diverged from a common ancestor.

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How do analogous structures differ from homologous structures?

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Analogous structures serve similar functions but do not share a common evolutionary origin, while homologous structures share a common ancestor.

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What role do fossils play in understanding evolution?

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Fossils provide evidence of past life forms and can show how species have changed over time, supporting the theory of evolution.

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What is the concept of natural selection?

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