Question

DNA sequences in many human genes are very similar to the sequences of corresponding genes in chimpanzees. The most likely explanation for this result is that

(A) humans and chimpanzees share a relatively recent common ancestor.

(B) humans evolved from chimpanzees.

(C) chimpanzees evolved from humans.

(D) convergent evolution led to the DNA similarities.

Short answer

(A) The statement “humans and chimpanzees share a relatively recent common ancestor” is true.

(B) The statement “humans evolved from chimpanzees” is false.

(C) The statement “chimpanzees evolved from humans” is false.

(D) The statement “convergent evolution led to the DNA similarities” is false.

Step-by-step solution

DNA sequencing

The method of DNA sequencing employs the analysis of base pairs among species at the molecular level. The genetic codes, their arrangement, and frequency of similar structures among species are compared during DNA sequencing.

Step 2: Explanation for option (A)

Molecular analyses show that humans and chimpanzees exhibit a high level of genetic similarities. The phylogenetic studies exhibit that humans shared the most recent common ancestors with chimpanzees.

Thus, humans and chimpanzees have high genetic similarities as they share common ancestors.

Therefore, the given statement is true.

Step 3: Explanation for option (B)

For several years researchers performed several analyses and finally concluded that humans have genetic similarities with the apes. It would be incorrect to infer that humans descended from chimpanzees.

Thus, humans did not evolve from chimpanzees.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Step 4: Explanation for option (C)

Humans and chimpanzees have numerous anatomical similarities, which suggest that they possess some evolutionary relationship. Following the evolutionary chart, one can infer that chimpanzees appeared much before humans.

Thus, chimpanzees did not evolve from humans.

Therefore, the given statement is false.

Step 5: Explanation for option (D)

There is a very high percentage of similarities among humans and chimpanzees, and one can infer that both these primates evolved from a common ancestor. They diverged from one another, and this branching appeared due to the divergent evolution.

Thus, chimpanzees and humans do not show convergent evolution.

Therefore, the given statement is false.