Vestigial Structures Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is a vestigial structure?

A structure with a clear function in modern species

A structure that evolves to become more complex

A remnant of a structure that may have had an important function in a species' ancestors (correct)

An entirely new structure that appears in a modern species

What is a common ancestor?

The shared ancestor of new, different species that arose from one population.

Who was Charles Darwin?

An English natural scientist who formulated a theory of evolution by natural selection (1809-1882).

Define evolution.

A process in which something passes by degrees to a different stage (especially a more advanced or mature stage). Signup and view all the answers

What is adaptation in physiology?

The responsive adjustment of a sense organ (as the eye) to varying conditions (as of light). Signup and view all the answers

What is natural selection?

A natural process resulting in the evolution of organisms best adapted to the environment. Signup and view all the answers

Define homologous structures.

Structures in different species that are similar because of common ancestry. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vestigial Structures

Vestigial structures are remnants of organs or features that had significant functions in evolutionary ancestors but lack clear purpose in current species.

Common Ancestor

A common ancestor refers to a shared ancestor from which multiple species have evolved, indicating the divergence of species from a single ancestral population.

Charles Darwin

Charles Darwin was an English naturalist known for developing the theory of evolution through natural selection, significantly influencing biological sciences during the 19th century.

Evolution

Evolution describes the gradual process by which living organisms change over generations, advancing towards more complex or refined forms.

Adaptation

Adaptation involves physiological adjustments that organisms or their sensory systems, like the eyes, undergo to optimize performance under varying environmental conditions.

Natural Selection

Natural selection is a key mechanism of evolution, where organisms better suited to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring, affecting the species' survival and evolution.

Homologous Structures

Homologous structures are anatomical features in different species that share similarity due to inheritance from a common ancestor, emphasizing evolutionary relationships.

Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to vestigial structures and evolution. Learn about the significance of these remnants in modern species and the role of common ancestors. Explore the contributions of Charles Darwin to evolutionary theory.