Mutations

Front

What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence.

Front

What causes mutations?

Back

Mutations can be caused by mistakes in DNA replication or environmental substances.

Front

How can mutations benefit organisms?

Back

Mutations can make an organism more suited to live in its environment.

Front

Are mutations always harmful?

Back

No, mutations are sometimes helpful to the organism.

Front

What is another name for a point mutation?

Back

Substitution.

Front

What is a frameshift mutation?

Back

A frameshift mutation occurs when nucleotides are inserted or deleted, changing the reading frame of the genetic code.

Front

What is an insertion mutation?

Back

An insertion mutation is when one or more nucleotide pairs are added to a DNA sequence.

Front

What is a deletion mutation?

Back

A deletion mutation is when one or more nucleotide pairs are removed from a DNA sequence.

Front

What is the difference between a mutation and a genetic variation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence, while genetic variation refers to differences in DNA among individuals in a population.

Front

Can mutations be inherited?

Back

Yes, mutations can be passed down from parents to offspring if they occur in germ cells.