Flashcard 2-Unit 5-Types of Mutations

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the structure and function of proteins.

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What are the types of mutations?

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The main types of mutations are substitution, deletion, insertion, and inversion.

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Define substitution mutation.

Back

A substitution mutation occurs when one nucleotide in the DNA sequence is replaced by another nucleotide.

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What is a deletion mutation?

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A deletion mutation involves the loss of one or more nucleotides from the DNA sequence.

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Explain insertion mutation.

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An insertion mutation occurs when one or more nucleotides are added to the DNA sequence.

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What is an inversion mutation?

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An inversion mutation happens when a segment of DNA is reversed within the chromosome.

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What is the significance of mutations in evolution?

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Mutations can introduce new genetic variations, which can be beneficial for adaptation and evolution.

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How does a deletion mutation affect protein synthesis?

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A deletion mutation can lead to a frameshift, altering the reading frame and potentially resulting in a nonfunctional protein.

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What is the role of messenger RNA (mRNA) in protein synthesis?

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mRNA carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized.

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What is the function of transfer RNA (tRNA)?

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tRNA transports specific amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis, matching them to the mRNA codons.