Question

How do mutations occur?

Answer 1

Mutation:

1. A mutation is a rapid, heritable alteration in an organism's genetic makeup or DNA sequence.
2. Mutations can result through viral infection, errors in DNA replication during cell division, and exposure to mutagens.
3. Either errors in DNA replication or environmental variables like UV light and cigarette smoke cause it to happen.

Mutation occurs due to the following causes:

1. It is caused by any sudden change in the sequences of a gene due to which the variation gets duplicated and gets inherited in the subsequent generations.
2. The change caused can be either an alteration of one nucleotide within the DNA or the deletion, or insertion, of a nucleotide, or the rearrangement of a larger length gene on chromosomes.

Internal Causes:

1. It occurs when the DNA copies incorrectly during the replication cycle.
2. This follows phenotypic changes.
3. This occurs due to abnormal internal biological activities.

External Causes:

1. Additionally, exposure to environmental elements including smoking, sunshine, and radiation can result in mutations.
2. DNA breaks down when specific chemicals or radiation are employed to cause it to do so.
3. UV exposure causes the thymine dimers (T-T) to break, altering the DNA.