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Identify two structural features that are common to most primates and that distinguish them from other mammal groups - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 7
Identify two structural features that are common to most primates and that distinguish them from other mammal groups. ______________________________________________... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Identify two structural features that are common to most primates and that distinguish them from other mammal groups - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify two structural features that are common to most primates and that distinguish them from other mammal groups.
Answer
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Prehensile hands: Most primates possess prehensile hands that allow for gripping and grasping, which is crucial for climbing and manipulating objects. This feature is not seen in most other mammal groups, which often have limiting digit configurations.
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Forward-facing eyes: Primates typically have forward-facing eyes that provide binocular vision, enabling depth perception and improved ability to navigate through complex arboreal environments. This trait is distinct from many other mammals that may have side-set eyes.
Step 2
Give two advantages of using mtDNA as a molecular clock.
Answer
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Higher copy number: There are many more copies of mtDNA in each cell compared to nuclear DNA, which can allow for easier extraction and analysis, especially from ancient or degraded samples.
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Predictable mutation rate: mtDNA has a predictable rate of mutation, making it a reliable tool for estimating evolutionary timelines and relationships among species, as it accumulates mutations at a relatively constant rate over time.