Final answer:
Physical anthropology includes subfields such as paleoanthropology, which studies human evolution through fossils, primatology, focusing on our primate relatives, and genetic anthropology, which uses molecular science to understand human migrations and origins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Subfields of Physical Anthropology
Physical anthropology, also known as biological anthropology or evolutionary anthropology, delves into the deep past to explore the evolution and diversity of humans and their close relatives. The three main subfields of physical anthropology are:
- Paleoanthropology - This subfield investigates the fossil records to understand the evolution and biological history of humans, their ancestors, and their relationships to one another over time.
- Primatology - Primatologists study our closest animal relatives, the nonhuman primates, to comprehend shared biological and social traits and what differentiates humans in the animal kingdom.
- Genetic Anthropology - Genetic anthropologists employ molecular science to analyze archaeological, historical, and linguistic evidence, which sheds light on human origins and migrations.
These subfields contribute significantly to our comprehension of human origins, evolution, biology, and behavior.