Question

Mitochondrial DNA is important for tracing the origins of humans because

a) It shows how each human group was related to other groups

b) It is only found in humans

c) No evidence of it mutating

d) It follows the female line, remaining relatively unchanged

Answer 1

D. It follows female line , remaining relatively unchanged.

The mitochondrial DNA of each human group can be traced back to a common female ancestor. So, it shows the relationship of each human group to a common ancestor but not a relationship between the groups. The mitochondrial DNA unlike other DNA is passed on from the mother to the offspring. The other DNA that is nuclear DNA is from both parents. So, it can be useful in determination of maternal ancestry. Mitochondrial DNA is found in humans and other organisms. It is prone to mutations.