Question

Mitochondrial DNA is important for tracing the origins of humans because:

a. It follows the female line, remaining relatively unchanged
b. There is no evidence of it mutating
c. It shows how each human group was related to other groups
d. It is only found in humans

Answer 1

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is important for tracing the origins of humans because it follows the female line and remains relatively unchanged.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is important for tracing the origins of humans because it follows the female line and remains relatively unchanged. The mitochondria contain DNA, which is passed on from mother to offspring. This makes mtDNA helpful in tracing genealogy since mutations occur in an organized pattern, allowing researchers to determine our most recent common ancestor through matrilineal descent.