Which of the following methods uses the logic that the number of changes required to explain multiple characters on a phylogenetic tree is simply the sum of the number of changes required to explain each individual character?
A) the Fitch algorithm
B) the maximum likelihood analysis
C) Bayesian inference
D) bootstrap resampling

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This method is known as the Fitch algorithm, which is based on the principle of parsimony (the idea that the simplest explanation is usually the correct one). The algorithm calculates the minimum number of changes necessary to explain the observed data on a phylogenetic tree, and assumes that the most parsimonious tree is the most likely one. Therefore, the Fitch algorithm uses the logic that the number of changes required to explain multiple characters is simply the sum of the number of changes required for each individual character.

Which of the Following Methods Uses the Logic That the Number