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.

Question

Want to see the full answer?

Answer 1

Question

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.

Expert Solution & Answer

Want to see the full answer?

Check out a sample textbook solution

See solution

Students have asked these similar questions

With detailed accounts of their various forms, explain any three of the following chromosomal aberrations: a) Deletions b) Duplications c) Translocations d)Inversion

A reciprocal translocation occurs in an individual between chromosomes 4 and 18, and this translocation causes a disease in the individual. What is the most likely reason chromosome mutation causes a disease? a) The translocation causes a break in the chromosome in a gene regulatory region. b) Chromosomes with a translocation cannot replicate. c) An individual with a translocation has some genes duplicated. d) An individual with a translocation has some genes missing.

the deletion of which chromosome causes obvious morphological and mental defects in the organism, such as microcephaly, strabismus, major mental retardation and is known as the 'cri-du-chat' syndrome?