What does the study of ancient DNA primarily help researchers understand about human evolution?

The study of ancient DNA is pivotal in understanding genetic relationships and population movements because it provides direct evidence of the genetic makeup of early humans and their ancestors. Analyzing ancient DNA allows researchers to trace lineage and ancestry, revealing how different populations are related to one another. This can shed light on how human groups migrated across the globe, interbred with other hominins, and adapted to various environments throughout history.

By working with ancient genetic material, scientists can reconstruct a timeline of human evolution, better understand the origins of specific traits, and illuminate the evolutionary pathways that led to the modern human populations we see today. The information gleaned from ancient DNA can show how populations have changed over time in response to environmental pressures or social factors, painting a comprehensive picture of our evolutionary journey.

While environmental changes and modern human behavior are certainly important in studying evolution, and although communication may play a role in social structures, they do not directly relate to the genetic aspect that ancient DNA elucidates. Therefore, the primary focus of ancient DNA studies is the genetic relationships and movements of populations throughout human evolution.