142k views
6 votes
Scientists use genetics to trace the evolution and migration of humans. How do scientists know which populations are older than others

User Razki
by
4.0k points

1 Answer

6 votes

Answer:

Scientists often look at mitochondrial DNA to determine these chronological relationships. Mitochondrial DNA mutates at a relatively predictable rate, often referred to as the "molecular clock". By comparing the amount of mutations between groups compared you can determine which groups have been around longer and therefore have acquired more mutations.

Step-by-step explanation:

User Kamiccolo
by
4.8k points