Question

How does a phylogenetic tree relate to the passing of time?

Short answer

A phylogenetic tree depicts the evolutionary history of a species, and these evolutionary events are illustrated across time.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

A phylogenetic tree is a visual depiction of a species' or a group of species' evolutionary history. The tree shows various species arising at various periods or from various locations.

Explanation

With relation to time, the evolutionary tree displays the series of events that caused various components to diverge from one or more common ancestors. The common ancestors are represented by a stem that splits into two or more branches, each reflecting a divergence event that leads to another node, each representing a new species divergence.

Conclusion

The evolutionary history of a species is displayed in a phylogenetic tree, and these evolutionary events are depicted with regard to time.