Evolution 2: Evidence for Evolution

Front

What is the study of the similarities and differences in unborn fetuses, or developing organisms?

Back

Comparative embryology

Front

The earliest organisms were ___________; the more recent organisms are ____________.

Back

simple; more complex

Front

The forelimbs of humans, cats, whales, and bats are similar in structure due to having a common ancestor. Is this considered homology or analogy?

Back

Homology

Front

What does the fossil record help scientists understand?

Back

All of the above: better understand the kinds of organisms that lived in the past, how the environment has changed over time, and how organisms have evolved over time.

Front

What type of structure is a remnant of an organ that had a function in an early ancestor?

Back

Vestigial structure

Front

What is the process by which organisms change over time through adaptations?

Back

Evolution

Front

What is the term for structures that have similar functions but different evolutionary origins?

Back

Analogous structures

Front

What is the term for the preserved remains or traces of ancient organisms?

Back

Fossils

Front

What is the concept that explains how species evolve through natural selection?

Back

Survival of the fittest

Front

What is the term for the genetic variation within a population?

Back

Genetic diversity