Question

How do Homologous Structures and Vestigial Structures prove Evolution?

its for an essay if you could just give me the jist and then'll elaborate.

Answer 1

Homologous structures and Vestigial structures provide evidence of a common ancestor.

Explanation:

By evolution it is most likely the reference is to Darwinian evolution and the concept of descent with modification. This theory of evolution ( there are several other theories and definitions.) postulates that all living things are descent from a primitive common ancestor. ( usually pictured as a very primitive simple one celled organism)

Anything that shows evidence of descent from a common ancestor can be used as supporting evidence for Darwin's theory of descent with modification. ( Note the difference between evidence and proof.)

Homology that most vertebrates have similar basic bone structure that is used in different ways ( wings, flippers, arms.) can be interpreted as evidence of a common ancestor

Vestigial structures are organs that are thought to have reduced or no present useful function. This is interpreted as evidence of an ancestor that had this organ as a useful structure.

Note descent with modification requires the acquisition of new information and the spontaneous, creation of new structures and organs. Vestigial organs may be evidence of common descent and can be used as evidence of Darwinian evolution. Vestigial organs can also be interpreted as evidence against descent with modification because vestigial organs show a loss of information and useful structures. This is the opposite of the prediction of Darwin's theory of descent with modification.

Proof of Darwin's theory would be empirical experimental evidence of the spontaneous development of new structures and useful information.