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Multiple Choice
Which of these statements is not true of the phylogenetic tree?
A
It represents evolutionary relationships among species.
B
It shows the exact time of divergence between species.
C
It can be used to infer common ancestors.
D
It is based on shared characteristics and genetic information.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of a phylogenetic tree: It is a diagram that represents evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics.
Recognize that phylogenetic trees are constructed using shared characteristics and genetic information, which help infer common ancestors of the species depicted.
Note that while phylogenetic trees show the relative order of divergence among species, they do not provide exact times of divergence unless specifically calibrated with additional data such as fossil records or molecular clocks.
Identify the statement that is not true: A phylogenetic tree does not show the exact time of divergence between species, as it primarily focuses on the relationships and order of branching.
Conclude that the statement 'It shows the exact time of divergence between species' is not true of a phylogenetic tree, as it typically lacks precise temporal information unless supplemented with additional data.