Final answer:
Neanderthals had a larger skull and brain, an occipital bun, large brow ridges, and a robust physique suitable for throwing projectiles. Cro-Magnons, being anatomically modern humans, had a more gracile build and skull features. Evidence from skeletal remains shows that Neanderthal men and women were likely involved in hunting, a trait shared with early modern humans.
Step-by-step explanation:
When examining the anatomical features of Cro-Magnon humans and Neanderthals, there are multiple distinctions to be made. Neanderthals are characterized by a larger skull and brain size compared to Cro-Magnons, indicative of their robust nature. Other notable features include an occipital bun at the back of the skull, large brow ridges with an air cavity beneath, a broad scapula, and a robust humerus with a massive head, suggesting proficiency in throwing projectiles and using spears. Neanderthals also had a larger nasal cavity and their incisors often show a rounded pattern of wear from possibly chewing leather. In contrast, Cro-Magnon, anatomically modern humans, had a more gracile physique with a rounded skull lacking the occipital bun and smaller brow ridges.
Insights into the lifestyle of Neanderthals are gained from studying skeletal remains such as those found in Shanidar Cave in Iraq, indicating a life with hunting-related trauma. Both Neanderthal men and women likely participated in hunting, although injuries in women were less frequent. DNA evidence has confirmed that Neanderthals interbred with Cro-Magnon, contributing to the modern human gene pool.