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.»