Chapter 14.4, Problem 11SAQ

Summary Introduction

A change in the DNA sequence of the cell is known as a mutation. Mutations often occur in two ways such as spontaneous mutations (which arise occasionally) and induced mutations (which arise from the exposure of mutagens). Mutations affect the phenotype of an organism. Mutations can produce genetic diversity and may affect or enhance the ability of survival and reproduction. Mutations can be harmful (reduce survival or reproduction), neutral (do not affect survival or reproduction), or beneficial (increase survival or reproduction). One or within a few generations, the harmful mutations can be eliminated because they often decrease the survival of organisms and their reproductive abilities. However, less harmful mutations can remain in the population.