TEAS 7 science practice questions Related

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Homologous structures are those that:

  • A. Have the same function but different origins
  • B. Have different functions but the same origin
  • C. Are similar in appearance and function due to shared ancestry
  • D. Are identical in both appearance and function
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Homologous structures are defined as anatomical features that are similar in appearance and function due to shared ancestry. This means that these structures are inherited from a common ancestor and may have evolved to fulfill different functions in different species. Option A, which mentions structures with the same function but different origins, describes analogous structures, not homologous ones. Option B, which refers to structures with different functions but the same origin, actually characterizes vestigial structures. Option D, stating that structures are identical in appearance and function, does not necessarily imply homology; such structures could result from convergent evolution rather than shared ancestry. Understanding homologous structures provides insights into the evolutionary relationships between different species and supports the concept of common descent.