Changing DNA is called mutation.
Mutations are alterations in the DNA sequence of an organism. These changes can be small, involving a single nucleotide, or large, affecting entire chromosomes. Mutations can occur spontaneously or be induced by environmental factors like radiation or chemicals.
Here are some important points to remember about mutations:
- Not all mutations are harmful: Some mutations can be beneficial, leading to adaptations and evolution. Others can be neutral, having no noticeable effect on the organism.
- Mutations are the source of genetic diversity: They introduce new variations into the gene pool, allowing populations to adapt to changing environments.
- Mutations can be inherited: If a mutation occurs in a germ cell, it can be passed on to offspring.
Understanding mutations is crucial in various fields, including medicine, genetics, and evolution. By studying mutations, scientists can develop new treatments for diseases, understand the origins of life, and track the evolution of species.
