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Why are molecular clocks not accurate when making comparisons between distantly related organisms?
Because rates of divergence are not static, but variable. The more distantly related the organisms, the longer the period of divergence. The longer the period of divergence, the more room there is for variability in the rate of divergence, the less accurate an estimate will be.
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Why do scientist today rely on molecular and genetic similarities to classify organisms?
Scientists rely on molecular and genetic similarities to classify organisms because these traits provide more accurate and precise data on evolutionary relationships. DNA and protein sequences reveal shared ancestry and allow for more detailed comparisons across a wide range of species, leading to a more reliable classification system. Additionally, molecular data help uncover hidden relationships that may not be apparent based solely on physical characteristics.
How does the phylogeny based on molecular analysis compare to the original phylogeny based on anatomical similarities?
Phylogeny based on molecular analysis can sometimes differ from the original phylogeny based on anatomical similarities because molecular analysis looks at genetic similarities, which may not always align with physical traits. Molecular analysis can provide a more accurate depiction of evolutionary relationships among organisms, as it is less affected by convergent evolution or other factors that can cloud anatomical comparisons.
Why do DNA comparisons provide the most direct evidence of evolutionary relationships?
DNA comparisons provide the most direct evidence of evolutionary relationships because they reflect the actual genetic changes that have occurred over time in different organisms. By comparing the sequences of DNA, scientists can determine the degree of similarity between species and estimate how closely related they are in terms of their evolutionary history. This molecular evidence is more accurate than comparing physical characteristics because it is less influenced by environmental factors.
Taxonomy in molecular biology?
Taxonomy in molecular biology involves classifying and categorizing organisms based on their genetic characteristics, particularly DNA sequences. This method has revolutionized the field by providing accurate and detailed information about evolutionary relationships and species identification. By analyzing the molecular data, researchers can create more precise and informative classification systems compared to traditional methods based on physical characteristics.
What do modern scientists use in classifying organisms that Linnaeus did not use?
Modern scientists use genetic sequencing, molecular studies, and evolutionary relationships to classify organisms, techniques that Linnaeus did not have access to. These methods provide a more accurate and detailed understanding of the relationships between different species.
Which factors are considered today when classifying organisms that were not considered when Linnaeus classified organisms?
Today, factors such as genetic similarities, molecular data, evolutionary relationships, and ecological interactions are considered when classifying organisms. These factors provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of the relationships between different species compared to the primarily physical characteristics that Linnaeus used.
What is one advantage of building phylogenetic trees using DNA comparisons rather than anatomical physical features?
One advantage of using DNA comparisons to build phylogenetic trees is that genetic sequences provide a more precise and objective measure of evolutionary relationships. DNA can reveal evolutionary connections that may not be evident through anatomical features, which can be subject to convergent evolution or homoplasy. Additionally, molecular data can capture subtle genetic changes over time, allowing for a more accurate representation of lineage divergence. This approach helps clarify relationships among organisms that may appear similar morphologically but are genetically distinct.
What kind of evidence is used by modern taxonomists to classify organisms based on how their relationships changed over time?
Modern taxonomists use molecular evidence, such as DNA sequences, to classify organisms based on how their relationships changed over time. By analyzing similarities and differences in genetic material, taxonomists can determine the evolutionary relationships between different species and create more accurate classifications. This molecular evidence complements traditional morphological and ecological data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of evolutionary relationships among organisms.
What problems are faced by taxonomists who rely on body-structure comparisons?
Convergent evolution can lead to quite different organisms evolving similar body structures. This makes it difficult for taxonomists to decide how the organisms should be classified.
Is the simplistic formula in chemistry the molecular formula?
this formula tells the accurate ratio of a molecule or compound
What advantage method of organism classification is that relationships between organisms can be proven even if structural analysis is misleading or inconclusive?
Molecular phylogeny is the method of organism classification that can demonstrate relationships between organisms even when structural analysis is unclear or misleading. By analyzing DNA sequences, scientists can determine evolutionary relationships based on genetic similarities, providing a more accurate representation of the evolutionary history of organisms.
What has caused scientist to change Linnaeus's system?
Advancements in genetics and molecular biology have led scientists to update Linnaeus's system by incorporating evolutionary relationships based on DNA evidence. This has allowed for a more accurate classification of organisms and a better understanding of their evolutionary history.
