What evidence supports the theory that organisms chage over time?
Answer (1)
The theory of evolution, which posits that organisms change over time, is supported by a vast body of evidence. Key pieces of evidence include:1. The Fossil Record:Fossils provide a historical record of life on Earth, showing a progression of changes in organisms over millions of years. Fossils of early life forms, like bacteria, are found in rocks millions of years old, and fossilized remains of extinct species show how organisms have changed and evolved. 2. Comparative Anatomy:Similarities in the skeletal structures of different species (homologous structures) and the development of similar structures in different species (analogous structures) provide evidence of common ancestry. 3. Embryonic Development:Embryos of different species show similar developmental patterns during early stages, suggesting shared ancestry. 4. Genetic Evidence:Similarities in DNA sequences between different species indicate shared ancestry, and mutations and genetic drift provide mechanisms for evolutionary change. 5. Observational Evidence:Evolution by natural selection can be observed in action, such as in the Galapagos finches where beak size changed in response to environmental conditions. 6. Direct Observation of Evolution:The rapid evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and the emergence of new strains of influenza viruses demonstrate that evolution is an ongoing process.
