Final answer:
Humans and chimpanzees are considered to be the closest living relatives. Over 98% of their DNA is identical, and they have genetic and behavioral similarities. The embryos of humans and chimpanzees also show similarities, indicating a common ancestor.
Step-by-step explanation:
Humans and chimpanzees are considered to be the closest living relatives due to several lines of evidence. One of the strongest pieces of evidence is the similarity in DNA between humans and chimpanzees. When scientists compared the entire genetic code of both species, they found that over 98% of their DNA is identical.
Another piece of evidence is the genetic and behavioral similarities between humans, chimpanzees, and gorillas. These three species have more than 97% of their DNA sequence in common, which results in many proteins with similar or identical functions.
The similarities between humans and chimpanzees also extend to their embryos. While humans did not evolve from chimpanzees, the similarities in the embryos of both species suggest that they share a common ancestor.