Question

Explain how fossils provide evidence for evolution.

a) Fossils provide evidence by showing the gradual changes in species over time.
b) Fossils provide evidence by showing that species remain unchanged.
c) Fossils provide evidence by showing the rapid evolution of species.
d) Fossils do not provide evidence for evolution.

Describe how scientists can use comparative anatomy to explain evolution from a common ancestor.

What are homologous structures?
a) Homologous structures are structures that are similar in function but not in structure.
b) Homologous structures are structures that have the same function and structure.
c) Homologous structures are structures that have different functions but the same structure.
d) Homologous structures are structures that are not related to each other.

Answer 1

Fossils provide evidence for evolution by showing gradual changes over time. Comparative anatomy, specifically homologous structures, supports the idea of evolution from a common ancestor.

Step-by-step explanation:

Fossils provide solid evidence that organisms from the past are not the same as those found today, and fossils show the gradual evolutionary changes over time. Scientists determine the age of fossils and categorize them from all over the world to determine when the organisms lived relative to each other. The resulting fossil record tells the story of the past and shows the evolution of form over millions of years. For example, highly detailed fossil records are available showing the evolution of humans and horses. The similarity in the morphology of the whale flipper to bird and mammal appendages indicates a common ancestor.

Scientific researchers use comparative anatomy to explain evolution from a common ancestor. Comparative anatomy involves studying the similarities and differences in the structures of different organisms. Homologous structures are structures that are similar in structure but may have different functions. These structures are evidence of shared ancestry and show the evolution of form and function over time. For example, the bones in the appendages of human, dog, bird, and whale all share the same overall construction, indicating descent from a common ancestor.