Examine the image below. Notice how all organisms in the image share several of the same bones (highlighted in orange and yellow). Are these homologous structures (homologies) or analogous structures(analogies)? Explain how these structures provide evidence for evolution and the relationship among organisms.

Question

Examine the image below. Notice how all organisms in the image share several of the same bones (highlighted in orange and yellow). Are these homologous structures (homologies) or analogous structures(analogies)? Explain how these structures provide evidence for evolution and the relationship among organisms.

Your answer must include:

• Whether these structures are homologous or analogous

• An explanation of how these structures provide evidence for evolution

• Your answer should be 2-4 sentences in length. In an effort to combat plagiarism, answers longer than 5 sentences will not be considered, Answering concisely and to the point is evidence of your understanding of the topic.

(2 points)

Answer 1

These structures are homologous. They are bones in the forelimbs of vertebrates, including humans, birds, bats, and whales. Despite serving different functions, such as flight, swimming, or grasping, these similar structures suggest a common ancestor and provide evidence for evolution through the process of divergent evolution. This supports the idea that these organisms share a common evolutionary history and are related.