Evidence of Evolution

Front

What is evidence of evolution?

Back

Evidence of evolution includes fossil records, homologous structures, vestigial structures, and observable changes in species over time.

Front

Define homologous structures.

Back

Homologous structures are anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry, indicating evolutionary relationships.

Front

What are vestigial structures?

Back

Vestigial structures are body parts that have lost their original function through evolution, such as the human tailbone.

Front

What is an example of an analogous structure?

Back

An example of an analogous structure is the wings of a butterfly and the wings of a bird, which serve similar functions but evolved independently.

Front

How do fossil records provide evidence for evolution?

Back

Fossil records show the progression of life forms over time, revealing how species have changed and evolved.

Front

What does it mean if two species have similar bone arrangements?

Back

It suggests that these organisms share a common ancestor, supporting the theory of evolution.

Front

What is the significance of vestigial structures in evolution?

Back

Vestigial structures provide evidence of an organism's evolutionary past and how species adapt over time.

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures arise from a common ancestor, while analogous structures evolve independently to serve similar functions.

Front

Give an example of a homologous structure.

Back

An example of a homologous structure is the forelimb of humans, whales, and bats, which have similar bone structures.

Front

What does the presence of vestigial organs indicate?

Back

The presence of vestigial organs indicates that an organism has evolved from ancestors that used those organs for different functions.