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The DNA in plants and animals is composed of the same chemical components - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 1 - 2011 - Paper 1
Question 1
The DNA in plants and animals is composed of the same chemical components. What is the biological significance of this statement? (A) Plants and animals can interb... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The DNA in plants and animals is composed of the same chemical components - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 1 - 2011 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the biological significance of this statement?
Answer
The statement about DNA in plants and animals being composed of the same chemical components highlights the evolutionary connection between the two kingdoms. This implies that:
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Common Ancestry: The most significant implication is that plants and animals share a common ancestry. Both groups evolved from a shared ancestor, which is reflected in their DNA's chemical composition. This similarity indicates evolutionary relationships and shows how diverse life forms can arise from common building blocks.
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Genetic Diversity: While the chemical components are the same, the arrangement and sequences of nucleotides in DNA differ among species, leading to genetic diversity essential for evolution.
Out of the options provided, (B) "Plants and animals share common ancestry" accurately reflects this concept.