Final answer:
Homologies are traits inherited from a common ancestor, while analogies are traits with a similar function but not inherited. Relative dating estimates age based on other fossils, while absolute dating provides an exact age. Radiocarbon and potassium-argon dating are commonly used for hominin fossils.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the study of fossil primates and hominins, understanding the difference between homologies and analogies is important. Homologies are traits that are similar in different species because they are inherited from a common ancestor. For example, the pentadactyl limb structure (having five fingers or toes) in primates is a homologous trait. Analogies, on the other hand, are traits that are similar in different species because they serve a similar function, but are not inherited from a common ancestor. For example, the wings of a bat and the wings of a bird are analogous structures.
When it comes to dating methods, there are both relative and absolute dating techniques used for fossils. Relative dating methods estimate the age of a fossil by comparing it to other fossils in the same rock layer or nearby layers. This method provides a relative age but not an exact age. Absolute dating techniques, on the other hand, calculate the actual age of a fossil in years. Some commonly used absolute dating methods for hominin fossils include radiocarbon dating and potassium-argon dating.