Evidence for Evolution Check for Understanding

Front

How does embryology support the Theory of Evolution?

Back

It shows that they have a common ancestor because of their similarities.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

NGSS.MS-LS4-3

Front

What is Variation in the context of evolution?

Back

Is a slight difference in an inherited trait of individual members of a species.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Front

What is the definition of evolution?

Back

A change in the inherited characteristics of an organism over time.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Front

How do homologous structures provide evidence of evolution?

Back

The genes for the body plan and forelimb layout were present in a common ancestral species vertebrates share, thus passed onto all vertebrates.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is a vestigial structure?

Back

A structure that likely once had a function in an early ancestor.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What does the term 'common ancestor' mean?

Back

A species from which two or more different species have evolved.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is natural selection?

Back

The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-4

Front

What is the significance of fossil evidence in evolution?

Back

Fossils provide a historical record of life on Earth and show how species have changed over time.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Front

What is the difference between homologous and analogous structures?

Back

Homologous structures are similar due to shared ancestry, while analogous structures are similar due to convergent evolution.

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NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Front

What is genetic drift?

Back

A mechanism of evolution that refers to random changes in the frequency of alleles in a population.