There are two opposing views about origin of modern man. According to one view Homo erectus in Asia were the ancestors of modern man. A study of variation of DNA however suggested African origin of modern man. What kind of observation on DNA variation could suggest this ?
(a) Greater variation in Asia than in Africa
(b) Greater variation in Africa than in Asia
(c) Similar variation in Africa and Asia
(d) Variation only in Asia and no variation in Africa

Options

A. Greater variation in Asia than in Africa
B. Greater variation in Africa than in Asia
C. Similar variation in Africa and Asia
D. Variation only in Asia and no variation in Africa

Answer

To determine the origin of modern humans based on DNA variation, we need to analyze the options provided in the question. The key is to understand how DNA variation can indicate the geographical origins of a species.

1. **Understanding DNA Variation**: DNA variation refers to the differences in genetic sequences among individuals within a population. When studying human evolution, scientists look at mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA to trace lineage and ancestry.

2. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option (a)**: Greater variation in Asia than in Africa. This suggests that if humans evolved in Asia, there would be more genetic diversity due to long-term habitation and adaptation in various environments.
- **Option (b)**: Greater variation in Africa than in Asia. This would suggest that Africa is the original home of modern humans, as more variation indicates a longer period of evolution and adaptation.
- **Option (c)**: Similar variation in Africa and Asia. This would imply that both regions have had equal evolutionary time, which does not support a singular origin.
- **Option (d)**: Variation only in Asia and no variation in Africa. This would contradict the idea of African origin, as it suggests that Africa has no genetic diversity.

3. **Conclusion**: The observation that would suggest an African origin of modern man is **Option (b)**: Greater variation in Africa than in Asia. This is because a higher level of genetic diversity in Africa would indicate that it is the cradle of modern human evolution, where the species had more time to diversify.

### Final Answer:
(b) Greater variation in Africa than in Asia.