Mutations

Question 1

What are mutations?

Answer 1

Mutations are permanent changes in the DNA sequence

Question 2

Name the 3 types of mutations and explain what they are.

Answer 2

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.

Question 3

What are somatic mutations?

Answer 3

Somatic mutations can happen in body cells, e.g., skin, liver, and heart cells. It cannot be inherited.

Question 4

What are gametic mutations?

Answer 4

Gametic mutations can happen in sex cells. They are inherited through fertilisation in sexual reproduction.

Question 5

Why are some mutations harmful?

Answer 5

Some mutations are considered harmful because they result in negative effects for the organism. This can endanger the life of the organism.

Question 6

Why are some mutations useful?

Answer 6

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.