Question

which of the following best describes how molecular data can provide evidence of evolutionary relationships? choose 1 answer: a species with more similarities in their dna sequences are likely more closely related. b species with more similarities in their amino acid sequences are likely less closely related. c species with fewer similarities in their nucleotide sequences are likely more closely related.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Molecular evidence for evolution (like DNA or amino acid sequences) shows that species with more similar molecular sequences (DNA, RNA, or proteins) share a more recent common ancestor, so they are more closely related. This aligns with evolutionary theory.
• Option B: Similarities in amino acid sequences (from protein coding genes) should indicate closer relatedness, not less. So this is incorrect.
• Option C: Fewer similarities in nucleotide (DNA) sequences would mean more evolutionary divergence, so the species are less closely related, not more. Thus, this is incorrect.

Answer:

A. Species with more similarities in their DNA sequences are likely more closely related.