A mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence of an organism. It can occur through various mechanisms, including errors during DNA replication, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, and the insertion or deletion of DNA segments. Mutations can happen in any cell type, including both somatic cells (non-reproductive cells) and germ cells (cells that produce eggs or sperm). Mutations are not limited to errors in mitosis; they can also occur during meiosis or even be inherited from parents.
