Campbell Biology (10th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321775651
ISBN 13: 978-0-32177-565-8

Chapter 26 - 26.5 - Concept Check - Page 562: 1

Answer

A molecular clock is steady accumulation of mutations over time, allowing the dated fossil (or other) record to be connected to the molecular genetic record. It assumes that mutations (marked by base pair changes) are accumulated at steady, unchanging rate.

Work Step by Step

The molecular clock is a useful tool, but it must be used with care. We now know that the mutations we find today have not always accumulated at a uniform rate, meaning that the molecular clock is sometimes inaccurate.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.