Final answer:
Homo erectus can be distinguished from modern humans by its larger cranial capacity, reduced brow ridges, and smaller limb proportions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The anatomical contrasts that distinguish Homo erectus from modern humans are:
- Larger cranial capacity: H. erectus had a progressive increase in brain size from about 550 cc to 1,250 cc, showing a larger capacity than modern humans.
- Reduced brow ridges: While H. erectus had a prominent brow ridge, modern humans have reduced brow ridges.
- Smaller limb proportions: H. erectus is taller than any other previous hominin, with longer legs that provided the ability to run great distances and chase prey.