Divergence time estimates based on molecular clocks are
A) best interpreted with caution, since they depend on assumptions that are difficult to test.
B) likely to be correct regardless of the genes used or the groups of organisms.
C) more reliable than divergence dates that are based on analysis of the fossil record.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Molecular clock estimates depend on a number of assumptions, including the accuracy of the mutation rate and the absence of selection, which are difficult to test and can affect the accuracy of the estimates. Therefore, molecular clock estimates should be interpreted with caution. Choice B is incorrect because the accuracy of molecular clock estimates depends on the choice of genes used for the analysis and the group of organisms being analyzed, and different genes or groups can yield different estimates. Choice C is also incorrect since fossil evidence can provide an independent source of information on divergence times and can help to test the accuracy of molecular clock estimates.

Divergence Time Estimates Based on Molecular Clocks Are