Final answer:
Physical anthropologists study both the origins of the human species and the biological differences and similarities among humans, delving into areas such as human and primate evolution, genetic anthropology, and bioarchaeology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Physical anthropologists study a wide range of topics pertaining to human beings, focusing on physical or biological aspects. These areas of study include the origins of the human species, the biological differences and similarities among humans, and the evolution and diversity of our species. Physical anthropologists use various methods such as genetic analysis, examination of fossilized remains, and the study of living primates to understand humanity's past, adaptation, and evolution.
To be specific, physical anthropologists' work can involve the study of human and primate evolution, known as paleoanthropology. They also investigate genetic anthropology by looking at the genetic makeup of contemporary humans to understand the distribution of traits and the relationships between modern humans and other hominins. Moreover, they explore how human biology evolved alongside ways of using the environment through studies in bioarchaeology and primatology.
The correct answer to the student's question is c) both A and B, meaning physical anthropologists study the origins of the human species as well as the biological differences and similarities among humans.