Sentences with phrase «occur at predictable rates»

In fact, changes due to mutations in the mitochondrial DNA over time can be used to distinguish groups and also to estimate the amount of time that has passed since two individuals shared a common ancestor, as these mutations occur at predictable rates.

By calibrating what scientists call the molecular clock — the hypothesis that mutation occurs at a predictable rate — to the panda separation 12 million years ago, one group of researchers suggests the polar bear's appearance as a species is a relatively recent phenomenon.

Not exact matches

In a nutshell, Bitcoin generates currency at a predictable rate (which reduces the chances of an inflationary spiral like those that have occurred in countries with traditional currencies) through a computer - intensive mathematical process known as «Bitcoin mining.»