The following statements would support evolution and the idea that all life comes from a common ancestor:
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The bodies of different species are similar. - This suggests anatomical similarities indicative of a common ancestry (homologous structures).
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The development of different species are similar. - This supports the idea of evolutionary relationships, showing that species share developmental pathways (embryology).
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The DNA of different species are similar. - Genetic similarities imply a common genetic heritage and evolutionary relationships between species.
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Fossils show different stages of evolution in a species. - This directly provides evidence of how species have evolved over time, supporting the idea of common descent.
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The fossil record is backed up by the geological record. - This adds credibility to the fossil evidence and its interpretation in the context of evolutionary history.
The other two statements, while interesting and related to the origins of life, do not directly support the concept of common ancestry in the same way:
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Experiments can form the molecules of life out of chemicals. - This relates more to abiogenesis (the origin of life) rather than common descent.
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Fossils show a history of life that gets more complex. - While it suggests complexity increases over time, it does not directly address how all life may share a common ancestor.
Therefore, the statements that apply are:
- The bodies of different species are similar.
- The development of different species are similar.
- The DNA of different species are similar.
- Fossils show different stages of evolution in a species.
- The fossil record is backed up by the geological record.