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

Correct answer: C. Homologous organs

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

Explanation

The forelimbs of humans, cat's paws, and front flippers of whales are examples of homologous organs. While these structures may have different shapes and functions in each species, they share a fundamental similarity in their underlying anatomy and development. In evolutionary history, the common ancestor of these species had a limb structure that has undergone modification and adaptation in each lineage to suit the specific needs and environments of humans, cats, and whales.

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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.

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