Chapter 16.3, Problem 3MI

Summary Introduction

To define:

The given term “mitochondrion” using a book or a dictionary.

Introduction:

Tracing the evolution of the genus Homo is very important for the knowledge of origin of humans, the only living species of Homo . Thegenus Homo which includes living and extinct humans first appeared between 3 and 2.5 mya in African grassland. They are the first species to control fire and modify stones to use as tools.

Answer to Problem 3MI

Mitochondrion is an organelle found in eukaryotic cells containing genetic material and responsible for cellular energy.

Explanation of Solution

The Out- of- Africa hypothesis suggests that modern humans evolved only once in Africa and then migrated to other parts of the world, eventually displacing other hominins. This hypothesis was supported by mitochondrial DNA analysis of contemporary humans in the early 1990s. Mitochondrial DNA changes very little over time and humans living today have nearly identical mitochondrial DNA.