B2.11 Mutations

Question 1

How are mutations beneficial, harmful or neither?

Answer 1

Mutations can be beneficial as some bacteria are resistant to antibiotics survive. The mutations of the bacteria die whilst some bacteria stays. A mutation is harmful as it can change the shape and function of a protein.

Question 2

Describe the properties of a specific protein

Answer 2

It has its own specific number and sequence of amino acids, causing different shaped molecules that have different functions e.g. Enzymes

Question 3

How does gene mutations change the DNA base sequence?

Answer 3

A mutation changes the sequences of bases in a genetic code. Some have no effect so protein shape is unaffected. Others I.e. Sickle cell produces haemoglobin replaces one amino acid in the chain with another. Causes protein to fold up in a different way and shape, cap hanging it’s function.