How Does the Molecular Clock Theory Work

question 75

Multiple Choice

How does the molecular clock theory work?

• A)It is based on examining the number of genetic mutations that have occurred during divergence of species.
• B)It proposes that species divergence is based on a constant rate of genetic drift and isolation.
• C)It is based on the notion that the Earth is one hour old,and it calculates events on a 60-minute clock.
• D)It is based on examining molecules and how chemical reactions occur over time.
• E)It argues that evolution occurs at steady rates and cannot make any changes over time that are not programmed.

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Definitions:

Microbes

Microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, that can be either beneficial or harmful to other organisms.

Bicarbonate

A negatively charged ion that plays a significant role in maintaining the pH balance of blood and other fluids in the body.

Chyme

The semifluid mass of partly digested food that moves from the stomach to the small intestine.

Small Intestine

A part of the gastrointestinal tract between the stomach and large intestine, where most of the digestion and absorption of food takes place.