Chapter 24, Problem 14STP

Summary Introduction

To write:

Three kinds of evidences that can be used to confirm the close relationship between animals with different body structures.

Introduction:

Evolution is the process of descent of modern organisms from ancient ones.

Explanation of Solution

To determine the close relation between organisms having different body structures, the following kinds of evidences may be used:

• Structural Evidences: The observation of similar anatomical features of organisms can indicate a common ancestry. Homologous structures, for example, are structures performing the same function but having different structures. Other structural evidences are analogous structures and vestigial organisms.
• Genetic Evidences: The method of gene sequencing and identification of similar gene sequences in various organisms helps in determining their common ancestry.
• Bio-geographical Evidences: Distributive patterns of fossils helped to indicate a common place of origin and a common ancestor for fossils found from the same area.

Conclusion

Evolution is a well-supported, detailed and accepted scientific theory which has been supported by several evidences and findings.