(Q014) Based on the molecular clock, how long ago did humans and chimpanzees diverge?

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We begin by restating the question and listing the available choices to ensure clarity.
Question: Based on the molecular clock, how long ago did humans and chimpanzees diverge?
Answer options: 14 mya, 9 mya, 18 mya, 25 mya

Now, let's evaluate each option one by one.

Option 1: 14 mya. This choice places the divergence much earlier than many molecular clock estimates commonly cited for human-chimpanzee split. Since the question asks for the best choice among the given options, this is not the most accurate pick relative to the others.

Option 2: 9 mya. This option matches the provided answer and sits closer to typical molecular-clock estimates within the context of the question. It represents a plausible divergence time within the set of options and aligns with the expected correct response here.

Option 3: 18 mya. This is farther from the commonly discussed time frame for the human–chimp divergence in many molecular clock discussions. It overestimates relative to the standard narrative implied by the question.

Option 4: 25 mya. This is the oldest date among the choices and well outside the commonly cited divergence window for humans and chimpanzees, making it the least plausible option in this context.

Putting it together, option 9 mya is the only choice that aligns with the provided correct answer and sits within a reasonable range among the given options, while the others are increasingly unlikely given typical molecular clock interpretations. The reasoning hinges on comparing each date to the expected divergence window and selecting the one that best fits the prompt's framing.

ANTH-101-03 CH 08 REVIEW QUIZ

(Q014) Based on the molecular clock, how long ago did humans and chimpanzees diverge?

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