Final answer:
The presence of mtDNA aligns with the endosymbiotic theory, supporting the view that mitochondria originated from prokaryotes that became permanent symbionts within eukaryotic cells. Mitochondrial traits such as circular DNA and division through binary fission are evidence of this relationship and its use in tracing human ancestry confirms mtDNA's evolutionary importance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The presence of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) supports the traditional view of the origin of mitochondria, namely the endosymbiotic theory. The endosymbiotic theory suggests that mitochondria were once free-living prokaryotes that entered into a symbiotic relationship with a host eukaryotic cell. Over time, this relationship became permanent, and the prokaryotes evolved into mitochondria, the powerhouses of eukaryotic cells. Mitochondria have their own circular DNA, which is separate from the cell's nuclear DNA and resembles that of prokaryotes. Additionally, mitochondria divide independently by a process similar to binary fission, as do prokaryotes. Furthermore, mtDNA is used in molecular anthropology to trace human evolutionary history, due to its maternal inheritance and rapid mutation rate, reinforcing the connection to a single ancient ancestor commonly known as Mitochondrial Eve.