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Multiple Choice
Which term best describes sets of fossils that demonstrate evolutionary changes in a series of related species over time?
A
Transitional fossils
B
Homologous chromosomes
C
Analogous structures
D
Vestigial organs
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of transitional fossils: These are fossils that show intermediate traits between ancestral and descendant species, providing evidence for evolutionary changes over time.
Review the definitions of the other terms to eliminate incorrect options: Homologous chromosomes refer to pairs of chromosomes with the same genes but possibly different alleles, analogous structures are features with similar functions but different evolutionary origins, and vestigial organs are remnants of structures that had a function in ancestors but are reduced or non-functional in modern species.
Compare the definitions: Transitional fossils specifically demonstrate evolutionary changes in a series of related species, which aligns with the problem's description.
Recognize that transitional fossils are key evidence in understanding evolutionary biology, as they help scientists trace the gradual changes in species over time.
Conclude that the term 'transitional fossils' best fits the description provided in the problem, as it directly relates to evolutionary changes in related species over time.