What is the significance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in understanding human ancestry?

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is significant in understanding human ancestry primarily because it can be used to trace maternal lineage back to a common ancestor. This is due to the fact that mtDNA is inherited exclusively from the mother, which allows researchers to study genetic connections over generations without the complication of paternal contributions. By analyzing variations in mtDNA sequences among different populations, scientists can reconstruct the evolutionary history of humans and identify migration patterns. This information is pivotal in anthropological studies, as it helps map out how humans have dispersed across the globe and how they are genetically related to one another.

In essence, the ability of mtDNA to provide insights into maternal lineage and ancestral roots makes it a powerful tool in the study of human evolution and ancestry.