Evidence of Evolution

Question 1

Anatomical Evidence: Homology

Answer 1

Character traits that are similar due to shared ancestry may have different form and function despite their common origin

Question 2

Anatomical Evidence: Homoplasy

Answer 2

Character traits that are similar in form and function but have evolved independently, usually due to convergent evolution

Question 3

Anatomical Evidence: Convergent Evolution

Answer 3

Independent evolution of similar traits in different species or period of time due to selective pressure

Question 4

Anatomical Evidence: Vestigial Traits

Answer 4

Character traits that are present in a species even though they do not necessarily serve the same purpose anymore

Question 5

Anatomical Evidence: Development

Answer 5

Vertebrate embryos share characteristics in early developmental stages

Question 6

Molecular Evidence

Answer 6

DNA and the genetic code are highly conserved because it is inherited from a common ancestor, the fewer differences in the genetic code the more closely related the species are

Question 7

Direct Observation

Answer 7

Evolutionary change that can be observed in real time

Question 8

The Fossil Record

Answer 8

Tells us that life on Earth has changed over time and provides evidence of intermediate/transitional forms

Question 9

Biogeography

Answer 9

the past and present geographical distribution of species on Earth