A gene accumulates one mutation every 100 years. If one species splits into two today, how many differences will exist in that gene between the two in 500 years?
A) 2
B) 5
C) 10
D) 100
E) 500

Question

A gene accumulates one mutation every 100 years. If one species splits into two today, how many differences will exist in that gene between the two in 500 years?​
A) ​2
B) ​5
C) ​10
D) ​100
E) ​500

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

One mutation accumulates every 100 years. Therefore, in 500 years, there will be 5 mutations (500/100 = 5). As the species split into two, each of them will accumulate 2.5 mutations (half of 5 mutations), which will round up/down to 3 and 2 mutations respectively. Therefore, there will be a total of 3 + 2 = 5 differences between the two species after 500 years. Hence, Choice C is correct.

A Gene Accumulates One Mutation Every 100 Years