An inherited structure that has lost much of its original function is called:

• A. a homologous structure
• B. an analogous structure
• C. a vestigial structure
• D. a dominant allele

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of each term given in the options: homologous structure, analogous structure, vestigial structure, and dominant allele.
2. Recall that a homologous structure refers to anatomical features in different species that share a common ancestry but may have different functions.
3. Recognize that an analogous structure refers to features that serve similar functions in different species but do not share a common ancestry.
4. Identify that a vestigial structure is an inherited anatomical feature that has lost much or all of its original function through evolution.
5. Note that a dominant allele is a genetic term referring to an allele that expresses its trait even when only one copy is present, which is unrelated to anatomical structures.