What are the differences in morphology and behavior between neanderthals and modern humans?

Question

What are the differences in morphology and behavior between neanderthals and modern humans?

Answer 1

Neanderthal were much more rubust, they had a shorter stature, and relatively short limbs (all adaptations to cold), since Europe used to be colder than it is today. Neanderthal brains were larger than modern brains, but were lower and longer as opposed to our brains which are higher and rounder.

Neanderthals had large noses, which pulled their faces forward, producing forward projecting zygomatic arches and an arched occipital bone. Their neuroanatomy was likely similar to modern humans, but some belief that due to the difference of their cranial base, they were less able to form symbollic thought.

Neanderthals only accomplished the Levallois and Chatelperronian technique and consequently were not as adept at tool using as their contemporary H. sapiens. There is much evidence for deliberate burial as well. Unlike H. sapiens, Neanderthals were probably unable to form complex hunting strategies and this is supported by the numbers of fractures found in most fossils. Additionally, neanderthals were unable to build dwellings and form complex communities.