How Do Comparative Data on Genes of Extant Species Help

question 6

Multiple Choice

How do comparative data on genes of extant species help us to make estimates of what happened before the phylogenetic event horizon?

• A) Common genes must have existed for a long time, possibly since the first life-forms.
• B) Common functional genes imply the minimal characteristics of early cells.
• C) If the first life-forms consisted of RNA, then current RNA-coding genes must be the ancestral genes.
• D) The first life-forms must have been endosymbionts because most small-genome extant bacteria are endosymbionts.

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Definitions:

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort experienced by an individual who holds two or more contradictory beliefs, ideas, or values at the same time.

Betting

The action of gambling money on the outcome of a race, game, or other unpredictable events.

Central Route

A method of persuasion that involves deeply processing the content of a message, focusing on the arguments and evidence presented.

Peripheral Route

A method of persuasion that relies on superficial cues or heuristics, rather than the logical content of the message, to influence someone's attitude or decision.