[Campbell Biology P.530] Which of the following statements accurately describes the differen... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the difference between analogous and homologous features as defined in the provided text?

  • A: Analogous features share common ancestry, while homologous features result from independent evolution.
  • B: Both analogous and homologous features always have similar functions.
  • C: Analogous features share similar function but not common ancestry, whereas homologous features share common ancestry.
  • D: Homologous features are always more complex than analogous features.

Explanation

The text explicitly defines analogous features as sharing "similar function, but not common ancestry," and homologous features as sharing "common ancestry, but not necessarily similar function." Option C accurately reflects these definitions.