Molecular evidence — Science definition
Similarities in DNA, RNA, and protein sequences among species; the more recently two species shared an ancestor, the more alike their molecules tend to be.
Where it is taught
- Evidence for Evolution — Evolution, Ancestry & Biodiversity, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
The fourth and arguably strongest line is molecular evidence.
Evidence for Evolution
Questions using molecular evidence
Problem 1
Which of the following is an example of molecular evidence for evolution?
- Humans and chimpanzees share about 98-99% of their DNA sequence
- A bat wing and a bird wing both allow flight
- Fossils in deeper rock layers are older
- Kangaroos are found mainly in Australia
Answer and explanation
Humans and chimpanzees share about 98-99% of their DNA sequence
Molecular evidence compares DNA, RNA, or protein sequences. High DNA similarity indicates a recent common ancestor. The other choices are anatomical, fossil, and biogeographic evidence.