The molecular clock has been useful to determine the phylogenetic relationships of species based on the assumption that:
A) a species accumulates genetic differences over time at a constant rate.
B) all species are related.
C) species will eventually change in time.
D) species adapt at specific rates.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The molecular clock assumes that genetic differences accumulate at a constant rate over time, providing a tool for estimating when two species diverged from a common ancestor. This assumption allows for the estimation of evolutionary distances and the construction of phylogenetic trees.

The Molecular Clock Has Been Useful to Determine the Phylogenetic