Question

Scientists routinely explore whether two different animal species have evolved from a recent common ancestor. _______________ is the LEAST useful technique to help with this determination.

A) Analysis of strands of DNA
B) Comparisons of bones and muscles
C) Comparisons of items eaten for food
D) Studies of embryos during development

Answer 1

C

Step-by-step explanation:

When researching on the lineage of 2 animals from a common ancestor, one can deduce it accurately from DNA samples and various bodily characteristics from the body of the 2 animals in comparison to the common ancestor.

A) Strands of DNA allows for scientist to deduce the percentage similarity between 2 animals. The more similar means that the closer the relatedness is between 2 species.

B) Bones and muscle structure gives one a rough gauge on similarity of both organisms. E.g. Compare human bone, muscle to chimpanzee bone muscle.

C) Comparison of food items is the worst methods as different species may feed on different types of food due to natural selection. E.g. Finch bird example on the galapegos island or sth.

D) growth of embryos of similar animals would have similar developmental stages and changes that is quite distinct to each species, allowing one to deduce the closeness of the 2 animals to a common ancestor.