Evidence of Evolution

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What is an analogous structure?

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Structures that have the same function but different evolutionary origins, indicating convergent evolution.

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What is a homologous structure?

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Structures that have the same parts but different functions, suggesting a common ancestry among organisms.

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What is a vestigial structure?

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A structure that has lost most or all of its original function through the course of evolution.

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What is divergent evolution?

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The process where different species evolve from a common ancestor, often due to adapting to different environments.

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What is convergent evolution?

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The process where unrelated species develop similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.

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What is embryology?

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The study of embryos of various organisms to show similarities in development, indicating a common ancestor.

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What is adaptive radiation?

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The process where organisms diversify rapidly into a variety of forms to adapt to different environments.

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What is natural selection?

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

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What is speciation?

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The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

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What evidence supports the theory of evolution?

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Fossil records, comparative anatomy, genetic similarities, and embryological development.