Phylogenetics is the study of the evolutionary relationships among different species. It uses various methods, including DNA analysis and fossil records, to create a "family tree" that shows how species are related to one another over time. This helps scientists understand how traits and characteristics have evolved and how different organisms are connected through common ancestors. By examining these relationships, researchers can gain insights into the history of life on Earth. For example, phylogenetics can reveal how birds are related to dinosaurs or how humans share a common ancestor with chimpanzees. This knowledge is crucial for fields like conservation and medicine.