Evidence for evolution Flashcards
What is the theory of evolution
All species share a common ancestor and gradual change over time due to natural selection
What are the two types of evolution
Divergent
Convergent
What is divergent evolution
When a single species evolves into two or more different species through speciation.
What are homologous structures
Characteristics of a common ancestor
What is convergent evolution
When two or more different species are exposed to similar selection pressures.
What are analogous structures
Different structures to perform similar tasks
What are four evidence for evolution
Fossil record
Embryology
Comparative anatomy
What are fossil records
Remains or traces of organisms from a past geological age. We can use carbon dating
What is embyology
The study of how an embryo develops
What is comparative anatomy
Homologous structures
Vestigial structures (functionless structures found in organisms that were once useful to the organism)
