Multiple Choice
What is the difference between a nonsense mutation and a missense mutation?
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15. Gene Expression
Mutations
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Can a mutation be beneficial to an organism?
A
Yes, mutations can lead to advantageous traits that improve survival or reproduction.
B
Mutations only occur in non-coding regions and are therefore neutral.
C
No, mutations are always harmful and decrease an organism's fitness.
D
Mutations have no effect on an organism's traits or fitness.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand what a mutation is: A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of an organism. Mutations can occur in any part of the genome, including both coding and non-coding regions.
Consider the potential effects of mutations: Mutations can have a range of effects on an organism. They can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful, depending on where they occur and what changes they cause in the organism's traits.
Explore beneficial mutations: Beneficial mutations are those that provide an advantage to the organism, such as increased survival or reproductive success. These mutations can lead to advantageous traits that may become more common in a population over time through natural selection.
Examine the statement about non-coding regions: While many mutations in non-coding regions are neutral, not all mutations occur exclusively in these regions. Mutations in coding regions can directly affect protein function and potentially lead to beneficial traits.
Evaluate the claim that mutations are always harmful: This statement is incorrect. While some mutations can be harmful, others can be neutral or beneficial, contributing to genetic diversity and evolution.
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