What is the evolutionary significance of the molecular clock technique?

The molecular clock technique is significant in evolution as it provides a way to estimate the timing of divergences between species based on genetic data. This method relies on the principle that mutations accumulate at a relatively constant rate over time in the DNA sequences of organisms. By comparing the genetic differences between species and knowing the mutation rate, researchers can infer when the last common ancestor of those species existed. This helps in constructing phylogenetic trees, which depict the evolutionary relationships among various organisms and can be used to understand the history of life on Earth.

Other options, while relevant in biology, do not directly relate to the primary function of the molecular clock. For instance, measuring species diversity pertains more to assessing the variety of different species in a given area, and tracking environmental changes involves monitoring shifts in ecosystems and habitats over time. Predicting future species is a complex endeavor that goes beyond the scope of what the molecular clock can achieve, as it's more focused on establishing past evolutionary timelines rather than forecasting future evolutionary events.