Based on scientific research, which statement best describes mutations

Based on scientific research, which statement best describes mutations?

a. Mutations are rare occurrences.

b. Mutations are always harmful.

c. Mutations cannot be inherited.

d. Mutations cannot be acquired.

Answer: a. Mutations are rare occurrences.

Mutations refer to changes in an organism’s DNA sequence, and they can either occur naturally during DNA replication or as a result of external factors such as radiation or chemicals. It is well-established through scientific research that mutations occur at very low frequencies, meaning that mutations in the genome are rarer events. Some mutations are harmful or cause genetic disease, whereas many mutations have neutral effects or exhibit no impact on health and development. Beneficial mutations provide a selective advantage or advantage in a given environment. When mutations occur in reproductive cells, those mutations can be passed along as genetic variation in offspring. However, mutations that are acquired in somatic cells (i.e., body cells) do not have a heritable component. Thus, the assumption that mutations always confer a harmful effect on the organism or that a mutation cannot be inherited is false. Generally speaking, mutations are infrequent but necessary for genetic variation and biological evolution that contribute to adaptation to changing environments.

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