The forelimbs of a human, a cat's paw, and the front flipper of a whale are examples of what?

Correct answer: C. Homologous organs

  • A. Rudimentary organs
  • B. Analogous organs
  • C. Homologous organs
  • D. Vestigial organs

Explanation

The correct answer is that the forelimbs of humans, cats' paws, and the front flippers of whales are examples of homologous organs. These structures are derived from a common ancestor, meaning they share a similar anatomical origin, despite having evolved to perform different functions across various species. This reflects the concept of divergent evolution, where related species evolve different traits.Conversely, rudimentary organs and vestigial organs refer to structures that have diminished in function over time and do not necessarily highlight common ancestry. Analogous organs are similar in function but arise independently in unrelated species, which is not the case here.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? [email protected]

About Evolution

Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.

Practise Evolution

814 free Evolution MCQs from Biology, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Biology questions like this

Biology is on 8 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Evolution questions