Question

The ability to analyze genomes - sequences of DNA - has grown more and more sophisticated. Scientists are able to examine the biological past in finer detail and with greater accuracy. A new analysis of the genetic links between early humans and chimpanzees has led to a hypothesis that the two species diverged more recently than previous estimates indicated. This gives credence to a very startling new theory: the ancestors of humans and chimpanzees might have hybridized to produce the lineage from which modern humans eventually developed.

What can be inferred from the statements above?

• A. Hybridized species combine the best of both lineages.
• B. Political and religious pressures will affect the course of future research.
• C. Future research will enable scientists to determine the exact characteristics of this hybrid ancestor of modern man.
• D. Earlier genome analysis established genetic links between early humans and chimpanzees.
• E. Human DNA is more complex than that of chimpanzees.

Answer 1

The correct option is D Earlier genome analysis established genetic links between early humans and chimpanzees.

Inference questions do not always encompass the entire argument. Sometimes they play on only a portion of the argument. Inference answers must absolutely be true

This inference question comes from this statement: "A new analysis of the genetic links between early humans and chimpanzees has led to a hypothesis that the two species diverged more recently than previous estimates indicated." If the species are thought to have diverged more recently than previous estimates indicated, then that means there were previous estimates indicating a genetic relationship. This is answer choice D.