Researchers can use molecular homologies to __________.

• A. estimate how long ago the common ancestor lived
• B. hypothesize about the morphological structures of a common ancestor
• C. hypothesize about the behavior of a common ancestor
• D. All of the listed responses are correct.
• E. reveal the number of mutations in a particular sequence that has occurred in each species since they diverged from a common ancestor

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that molecular homologies refer to similarities in DNA, RNA, or protein sequences between different species, which can be used to infer evolutionary relationships.
2. Recognize that researchers use these molecular similarities to estimate the time since two species diverged from a common ancestor by comparing the number of mutations in their sequences.
3. Consider that the more mutations present in a sequence, the longer the time since the species shared a common ancestor, as mutations accumulate over time.
4. Acknowledge that while molecular homologies can provide insights into evolutionary timelines, they can also help hypothesize about the morphological and behavioral traits of common ancestors.
5. Conclude that all the listed responses are correct because molecular homologies can be used to estimate divergence times, hypothesize about ancestral traits, and reveal mutation numbers in sequences.