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Book 33, Question 18 · Video

Why do your arm and a horse’s leg have similar bones?

Video · 1:45 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 33

Look at the bones of a human arm, a dog’s leg, and a horse’s leg. They all have a long upper bone, two lower bones, a wrist, and finger-like bones. A horse’s leg bones are long, and it walks on one big toe, like the tip of your middle finger. This match shows that mammals came from a common ancestor, and bodies change to fit each way of life.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do your arm and a horse’s leg have similar bones?

The Big Idea

Your arm and a horse's leg look different. But inside, the bones match! Why?

Same Parts

Step one: Same Parts. A human arm, a dog's leg, and a horse's leg all have a long upper bone and two lower bones. They also have a wrist and finger-like bones.

One Big Toe

Step two: One Big Toe. A horse's leg bones are long, and it walks on one big toe. That's like walking on the tip of your middle finger.

Common Ancestor

Step three: Common Ancestor. This match shows that mammals came from a common ancestor. Bodies change to fit each way of life.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! One. Side by side. Small bones. Or toes.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! A horse walks on the tip of one finger-like toe. Mammals share a bone plan. Dogs walk on their toes. They share a common ancestor.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Find a picture of a horse's front leg. Match each part to your arm. Label shoulder and elbow. Label wrist and hand. Which part surprised you?

Outro

A human arm, a dog's leg, and a horse's leg share the same bone plan: an upper bone, two lower bones, a wrist, and finger-like bones. A horse walks on one big toe. This shows a common ancestor. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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