Question

Differentiate between homology and analogy. Give one example for each

Answer 1

Homology and Analogy concepts allow scientists to make use of other organisms to research different human biological mechanisms and drug therapies without intensive and potentially harmful human experiments. As a result, we can assume that the key distinction between homologous and comparable systems is the basis of each species.

Complete answer:

Homology	Analogy
In biology, homology is the resemblance of the arrangement, physiology, or growth of various species of organisms.	In biology, an analogy is a functional similarity of structure, based on the similarity of use and not upon common evolutionary origins.
Due to a similar structure, they do have similar functions	Due to different structures, they do not have similar functions.
Homologous structures are inherited from a common precursor.	Analogous structures are inherited from a different precursor.
Homologous structures are developed from related embryonic substances.	Homology is developed in species that are not related to each other.
Homology happens due to divergent evolution.	Analogy happens due to convergent evolution
Example: The human arm, the wing of the eagle, and the pectoral fins of the whale are homologous structures, as they all have identical patterns of bones, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels with similar developmental origins. But they have a different purpose, though.	Example: The wings of birds and insects, on the other hand, are equivalent structures. They both permit flight but do not have any developmental processes in common.

Note: During the 19th century, the British biologist, Sir Richard Owen, was the first to describe both homology and analogy in detailed terms. The terms homology and analogy often refer to the molecular configurations of cellular constituents.