Chapter 24.2, Problem 6MI

Summary Introduction

To model:

A bilaterally symmetrical being and show characters showing asymmetry and radial symmetry.

Introduction:

Symmetry is the repetition of body parts of animals or plants in an order. Here, the parts are divided in the central point or axis. In bilateral symmetry, the opposite sides of an organism are similar. The left portion is just same as right portion in sagittal plane. In circular symmetry, the regularity of parts is seen around the central axis.

Explanation of Solution

The organism selected here is human being. Human beings have bilateral symmetry. Their right body part is the exact copy or mirror image of left body part, and vice versa. Their two eyes, two ears, two arms, and two legs show bilateral symmetry. Radial symmetry is not seen at all in human body. Asymmetry is seen among hand fingers and toes as well.