Asked by b

Why are molecular clocks important in the construction of cladograms?

They compare the frequency of reproduction to determine which traits evolved through mutations.

They compare the genes inherited by a species to determine descendants.

They compare the number of mutations to determine how long ago species separated and evolved.

All Answers 1

Answered by GPT-5 mini AI
"They compare the number of mutations to determine how long ago species separated and evolved." is correct.

Molecular clocks use the steady accumulation of genetic mutations as a time gauge to estimate divergence times between lineages, which helps place timing on branches of cladograms (with calibration points from fossils or geologic events).