Scientists look at DNA to understand how different living things are related to each other. They do this by studying the similarities and differences in their genes. Here are some important methods they use:
Comparative Genomics: This is where researchers compare DNA sequences. For example, humans share about 98.8% of their DNA with chimpanzees. This shows that we are closely related in terms of evolution.
Molecular Clocks: Scientists also look at how fast DNA changes, or mutates, to figure out when different species split from each other. For example, they believe that humans and mice had a common ancestor around 75 million years ago.
Phylogenetic Trees: By analyzing DNA, scientists can create trees that show how different species are related. These trees use genetic information to help us see how living things have changed and evolved over time.
Overall, these methods help scientists learn more about the connections between all kinds of life on Earth!
Scientists look at DNA to understand how different living things are related to each other. They do this by studying the similarities and differences in their genes. Here are some important methods they use:
Comparative Genomics: This is where researchers compare DNA sequences. For example, humans share about 98.8% of their DNA with chimpanzees. This shows that we are closely related in terms of evolution.
Molecular Clocks: Scientists also look at how fast DNA changes, or mutates, to figure out when different species split from each other. For example, they believe that humans and mice had a common ancestor around 75 million years ago.
Phylogenetic Trees: By analyzing DNA, scientists can create trees that show how different species are related. These trees use genetic information to help us see how living things have changed and evolved over time.
Overall, these methods help scientists learn more about the connections between all kinds of life on Earth!