The human genome comprises about 3 x 109 base pairs of DNA, and no two humans, other than identical twins, ever have been or will be genetically identical. Between any two humans, the amount of genetic variation is about 0.1 percent. What conclusion would be MOST appropriate about the genetic variation between humans and the three apes as illustrated by the phylogenetic tree? A) Genetic variation between all four organisms is non-existent. B) The genetic variation between all four organisms is about the same. C) The genetic variation between humans and orangutans is the greatest. D) Humans branched off from the other three animals due to great genetic variations.

The correct answer is C.

Explanation:

The amount of genetic variation in two humans is 0.1 percent of their genome. Human genetic variation refers to the biological difference that exists in the human population.

The genetic variation in humans and apes genome is about 4 percent which is 35 million differences in a single nucleotide.

The genetic variation between apes and humans (Homo sapiens), according to scientists includes gene expression differences, variation in the transportable elements and type and number of repetitive genomic DNA transportable elements, the difference in the gene sequence, single nucleotide polymorphic, etc.

According to research, 97 percent of humans and orangutans genomes are identical. Based on evolution, among all apes, the orangutans are very special as it has been stable for the past 15 million years.

Therefore, is the genetic variation between humans and orangutans is the greatest.