Question

Why does mutation in genetic material occur only in germinal cell?

Answer 1

Mutations occur in both germinal cells and somatic cells. DNA is the genetic material and if mutations occur in germ cell, it will be transferred into offspring and it will be known as hereditary mutation. Whereas, somatic mutation can occur in any cell during any period of life of any individual. Somatic mutations can be caused by environmental factors like exposure to UV radiations and these mutations are not passed to the next generation.