Understanding Mutations: A Deep Dive

What are the two types of nucleic acids mentioned?

• RNA and DNA

• mRNA and tRNA

• Amino acids and proteins

• Chromosomes and genes

Which type of mutation does not change the amino acid that a codon codes for?

• Deletion

• Insertion

• Silent mutation

• Substitution

What can cause mutations to occur more frequently?

• Eating genetically modified foods

• Inheriting two copies of a mutated gene

• Excessive radiation or certain chemicals

• Natural selection

What is a frameshift mutation?

• A mutation that changes one amino acid

• A mutation where a base is substituted, but the amino acid remains the same

• A mutation that shifts the reading frame of the genetic code

• A mutation that duplicates a segment of DNA

What is a chromosomal mutation?

• A change in a single DNA base

• A mutation that affects the entire chromosome structure

• A mutation that only occurs in chromosomes 23

• A silent mutation in a chromosome

Which mutation can result from nondisjunction?

• A silent mutation

• A frameshift mutation

• An egg or sperm cell with too many or too few chromosomes

• A substitution mutation

How are mutations passed to offspring?

• Through environmental influences

• Through both asexual and sexual reproduction

• Through asexual reproduction only

• Through willful change by the organism

Why are fruit flies frequently studied in genetic research?

• Because they reproduce asexually

• Because they have a short lifespan

• Because their mutations and inheritance patterns are similar to humans

• Because they have a large number of chromosomes

What is the effect of inheriting one mutated gene for sickle cell anemia?

• The individual will have severe symptoms of malaria

• The individual will be a carrier and may have a protective factor against malaria

• The individual will have sickle cell anemia

• The individual will not be affected at all

What is the role of genetic counselors?

• To conduct genetic research on fruit flies

• To treat genetic disorders

• To modify genes to prevent mutations

• To help families affected by genetic disorders