Final answer:
A mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence of an organism's genome, which can occur due to errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens, or viral infections. They are essential for evolution, as they contribute to genetic diversity, and can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral. Mutations can affect protein function and the phenotype of an organism and may lead to genetic disorders or cancers.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is a Mutation?
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of an organism's genome. It is a fundamental concept in genetics and can have a variety of effects on the organism. Mutations can occur in different ways, such as through errors during DNA replication, exposure to environmental mutagens, or viral infections. A mutagen is an agent that causes mutations and includes physical factors like radiation and chemical compounds like those found in tobacco smoke. Different types of mutations exist, including point mutations, insertions, deletions, and chromosomal alterations.
Mutations are essential for biological evolution as they introduce genetic diversity within a species. While most mutations are neutral, having little to no impact on the organism, others can be beneficial, harmful, or even lethal. Beneficial mutations may confer an advantage that can be selected for by natural selection, contributing to the evolutionary process. Harmful mutations, on the other hand, may be deleterious to an organism's survival and reproduction. Mutations that occur in germ cells can be passed down to offspring, while mutations in somatic cells are not inherited.
A mutation can lead to a change in the amino acid sequence of a protein, potentially affecting a protein's function and, consequently, the phenotype of an organism. In some cases, this can result in genetic disorders or contribute to the development of cancers.