Which of the following statements about the "Molecular Clock" are true? A. The notion was developed by Allen Wilson & Vince Sarich B. It was published as 'Immunological Time Scale for Human Evolution' C. It is useful to understand primate evolution only D. Dating can be done through examining accumulated mutations since any two species split from a common ancestor. Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Molecular Clock Statements Analysis
The question asks to identify the true statements about the "Molecular Clock" concept. Let's analyze each statement:
- Statement A: The concept of the molecular clock was indeed developed by scientists Allen Wilson and Vince Sarich in the late 1960s. This statement is True.
- Statement B: Their work, particularly concerning immunological comparisons, contributed to establishing an "Immunological Time Scale for Human Evolution," aligning with this statement. This statement is True.
- Statement C: The molecular clock is a broad tool used in evolutionary biology to estimate divergence times for various organisms, not limited to primates. Its application extends to many species groups. Therefore, this statement is False.
- Statement D: The core principle of the molecular clock involves examining the accumulation of genetic mutations over time. By comparing these accumulated mutations between species, scientists can estimate the time since they diverged from a common ancestor. This statement is True.
Conclusion on Molecular Clock Truthfulness
Based on the analysis, statements A, B, and D are true, while statement C is false. This corresponds to the option that includes A, B, and D.
Final Answer Derivation
The correct option must contain only the true statements. Since A, B, and D are identified as true:
- Option 1 (A & B Only) is incorrect because it omits D.
- Option 2 (B, C & D Only) is incorrect because it includes C (false) and omits A.
- Option 3 (C & D Only) is incorrect because it includes C (false) and omits A and B.
- Option 4 (A, B & D Only) is correct as it includes all the true statements (A, B, D) and excludes the false statement (C).
