Key Idea.
Section 1
Defining Common Ancestry
A common ancestor is an ancient population that no longer exists today. It is the starting point that split into two or more new descendant groups.
Crucial Clarification: Whales did not evolve from modern wolves. Instead, whales and wolves both evolved from a shared ancient ancestor that lived millions of years ago.
Section 2
The Family Tree Analogy
To understand this, think of your own family.
You did not descend from your cousin. You and your cousin both descended from a grandfather.
Expand to review the lesson summary and core properties.
Section 1
Defining Common Ancestry
A common ancestor is an ancient population that no longer exists today. It is the starting point that split into two or more new descendant groups.
Crucial Clarification: Whales did not evolve from modern wolves. Instead, whales and wolves both evolved from a shared ancient ancestor that lived millions of years ago.
Section 2
The Family Tree Analogy
To understand this, think of your own family.
You did not descend from your cousin. You and your cousin both descended from a grandfather.