Convergent evolution and divergent evolution are the two concepts explaining organic evolution. Explain each one with the help of an example.

There are certain organisms which have organs with similar anatomical structure but these organs perform different functions in these different organisms. For example, the forelimbs of bat and humans share similar pattern of bones but their forelimbs perform different functions. Hence, in these organisms, the same structure developed along different directions due to adaptations and different needs. Such organs are called homologous organs and this type of evolution is called divergent evolution.

There are certain organisms which have organs with different anatomical structure but these organs perform same functions in these different organisms. For example, the wings of birds and wings of bats have different anatomy but both of them are used to fly. Hence, in these organisms, the different structure evolved for the same function. Such organs are called analogous organs and this type of evolution is known as convergent evolution.