Based upon good paleontological evidence the line between two species, A an B, diverged 10 million years ago. Species A and B differ in 3% of the nucleotide positions in that part of their genomes that can be compared. Assume that the mutation rate between A and B for an analogous part of their genomes also applies to species B and C. Also, species B and C differ in 5% of the nucleotide positions. What is the calculated divergent time between B and C? Assume a molecular clock is operating.
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Step 1
Given that the percentage nucleotide difference between A and B is 3% and the time since divergence is 10 million years, the rate of nucleotide difference accumulation per 1 million years is 0.03 / 10 = 0.003. Show more…
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