Question

How are mutation rates observed, and what role do molecular clocks play in estimating speciation times between different life forms?

a. Mutation rates can be observed over millions of years in simple bacteria.
b. Carbon dating is the primary method for estimating mutation rates.
c. Molecular clocks use observed mutation rates to estimate speciation times.
d. Speciation times are directly measured from fossil records.

Answer 1

Mutation rates can be observed over time, and molecular clocks play a role in estimating speciation times between different life forms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mutation rates can be observed over time, and molecular clocks play a role in estimating speciation times between different life forms.

Mutation rates are typically observed in organisms that have short lifespans and reproduce quickly, such as bacteria. By analyzing the genetic variations that occur over generations, scientists can estimate the rate of mutations.

Molecular clocks use the observed mutation rates to estimate when different species diverged from a common ancestor. These clocks are based on the assumption that mutations accumulate at a steady average rate in a specific region of DNA. By comparing the differences in DNA sequences among species, scientists can estimate the time of speciation.