Which species is considered the closest extinct relative of modern humans?
Neanderthal Man is considered the closest extinct relative of modern humans, with a brain size comparable to Homo sapiens. This follows from NCERT principle where relation explains outcome clearly for students.
Ref: NCERT Biology Textbook for Class XI and XII (Zoology section), Chapter: Biology - Zoology portion covering relevant system and function, Topic: Structural organization and physiology.