Explain: $(a)$ Homology $(b)$ Analogy.

Vedclass pdf generator app on play store
Vedclass iOS app on app store
(N/A) Comparative anatomy and morphology show similarities and differences between organisms of today and those that existed years ago. These similarities help determine whether current organisms descended from common ancestors.
$(a)$ Homology: Whales,bats,cheetahs,and humans (all mammals) share similarities in the pattern of bones of their forelimbs. Although these forelimbs perform different functions in these animals,they have similar anatomical structures. In all of them,the forelimbs consist of humerus,radius,ulna,carpals,metacarpals,and phalanges. This is an example of divergent evolution,and these structures are called homologous organs. Homology indicates common ancestry.
$(b)$ Analogy: This refers to structures that perform similar functions but have different anatomical origins. This is a result of convergent evolution,where different groups of organisms adapt to similar habitats by developing similar adaptations for similar functions. Examples include the eyes of an octopus and mammals,or the flippers of penguins and dolphins. Another example is the sweet potato (root modification) and potato (stem modification),which are analogous organs.

Explore More

Similar Questions

The given diagram depicts:

How do we compute the age of a fossil?

Age of fossils in the past was generally determined by the radio-carbon method and other methods involving radioactive elements found in the rocks. More precise methods,which were used recently and led to the revision of the evolutionary periods for different groups of organisms,include:

What is the origin of sedimentary rocks (fossils)?

Which of the following is a connecting link showing organic evolution?

Vedclass Products

For Students

Vedclass Test Series

Mock tests in real JEE/NEET style with performance analysis. 5-day free trial.

Start Free Trial
For Teachers

Exam Paper Generator

Generate Set A/B/C/D exam papers from 7.5L+ questions in 2 minutes. 3 chapters free.

Try Free
For Institutes

Online Exam Module

Live online exams with unlimited students, 360° analytics & white-label branding.

See Demo