Read this excerpt. Scientists relied on which two methods to solve the mystery of how ancient people reached the islands?
A journal entries of people who disappeared from the island long ago
B DNA analysis of people on the islands compared to other people
C measurements taken by research ships that study the tides in the area
D the success of an explorer who sailed on a raft from South America to Polynesia
E news accounts of issues involving the Polynesian government and its laws
The correct answer is B: DNA analysis of people on the islands compared to other people.
Explanation: Scientists used DNA analysis to trace the genetic connections between the populations of the islands and those from other regions, which helps to show how ancient peoples may have migrated and settled in these isolated locations. This method provides scientific evidence of ancestry and migration patterns, crucial for solving the mystery of their arrival.