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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true regarding the molecular and traditional analysis of phylogenies in organic chemistry?
A
Molecular analysis cannot be used to study extinct species.
B
Molecular analysis relies on DNA sequences, while traditional analysis uses morphological traits.
C
Both molecular and traditional analyses provide identical results for all organisms.
D
Traditional analysis is more accurate than molecular analysis in determining evolutionary relationships.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Phylogenies are used to study the evolutionary relationships between organisms. In organic chemistry, this can relate to the study of molecular structures and their evolutionary history.
Clarify the terms: Molecular analysis involves examining DNA sequences to infer evolutionary relationships, while traditional analysis relies on morphological traits, which are the physical characteristics of organisms.
Evaluate the first statement: 'Molecular analysis cannot be used to study extinct species.' This is generally false because molecular analysis can sometimes be applied to extinct species if DNA can be extracted from preserved remains.
Evaluate the second statement: 'Molecular analysis relies on DNA sequences, while traditional analysis uses morphological traits.' This is true as molecular analysis focuses on genetic information, whereas traditional analysis looks at physical features.
Evaluate the remaining statements: 'Both molecular and traditional analyses provide identical results for all organisms' is false because they can yield different insights. 'Traditional analysis is more accurate than molecular analysis in determining evolutionary relationships' is also false as molecular analysis often provides more precise data.