NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Consider the following pairs of biological structures: (i) Sweet potato and potato (ii) Thorns of Bougainvillea and tendrils of Cucurbita (iii) Eyes of an octopus and a mammal (iv) Forelimbs of a cheetah and a human Which of the above pairs represent homologous structures resulting from divergent evolution?
Options
- A(i) and (iii)
- B(ii) and (iv)
- C(i) and (iv)
- D(ii) and (iii)
Correct answer
B. (ii) and (iv)
Step-by-step solution
Homologous structures are those that share a common ancestry and basic anatomical plan but have been modified to perform different functions. This is a result of divergent evolution. Analogous structures are those that have different anatomical origins but perform similar functions due to adaptation to similar environments. This is a result of convergent evolution. (i) Sweet potato is a modified root and potato is a modified stem. Both store food, making them analogous structures. (ii) Thorns of Bougainvillea and t