Evidence of Evolution and Common Ancestry

This set of flashcards provides key vocabulary and definitions related to the evidence of evolution and common ancestry as discussed in the lecture.

Fossil record

Gives a visual of evolutionary change over time through the remains or traces of past organisms.

Comparative morphology

Analysis of the structures of living and extinct organisms to determine evolutionary relationships.

Homology

Characteristics in related species that have similarities, even if the functions differ.

Vestigial structures

Structures that are conserved in organisms, even though they no longer have a use, such as the tailbone and appendix in humans.

Molecular homology

Similar DNA and amino acid sequences shared by many species, indicating common ancestry.

Convergent evolution

The process where similar adaptations have evolved in distantly related organisms due to similar environments.

Analogous structures

Structures that are similar in function but have separate evolutionary origins.

Biogeography

The study of the distribution of animals and plants geographically.

Embryonic homology

Similar embryonic development among many species, suggesting common ancestry.

Antibiotic resistance

A change in genomes of bacteria that allows them to survive despite the presence of antibiotics, demonstrating evolution.