Mutations Flashcards
What are mutations?
Mutations are permanent changes in the DNA sequence
Name the 3 types of mutations and explain what they are.
Deletion, insertion, and substitution.
Deletion:
When one base is removed from the sequence.
Insertions:
When one base is added in the sequence.
Substitution:
When one base is replaced by another one.
What are somatic mutations?
Somatic mutations can happen in body cells, e.g., skin, liver, and heart cells. It cannot be inherited.
What are gametic mutations?
Gametic mutations can happen in sex cells. They are inherited through fertilisation in sexual reproduction.
Why are some mutations harmful?
Some mutations are considered harmful because they result in negative effects for the organism. This can endanger the life of the organism.
Why are some mutations useful?
Mutations that result in a positive effect are called beneficial mutations. They help organisms adapt to changes in their environment with new versions of proteins. This mutation is essential for evolution to occur.