Final answer:
The Neandertals, or Homo neandertalensis, were stocky and robust and lived about 200,000 years ago. They had distinct physical features and larger brains than modern humans, and they interbred with early humans who left Africa.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Neandertals (Homo neandertalensis) were stocky and robust. This description pertains to their physical characteristics, which included a stocky build with a heavy bone structure, broad pelvis, and shorter limbs, adaptations likely beneficial in their cold habitats. From about 200,000 years ago, during the Würm glaciation, western Europe was occupied by these humans. Neanderthals had a distinct appearance with flatter skulls, pronounced brow ridges reminiscent of Homo erectus, and strong musculature. They also had large brains, averaging larger than those of modern humans. Moreover, evidence suggests that after early humans emerged from Africa, they interbred with Neanderthals before spreading out to populate different parts of the globe.