Mutations can occur in the chromosomes of all types of cells. Mutations that are passed on to offspring must occur in

the sex cells, sperm or egg.

reproductive cells, specifically in the sperm or egg cells, also known as gametes. These mutations can be inherited by the offspring and can have long-term effects on the traits and characteristics of future generations.

To understand why mutations must occur in reproductive cells to be passed on, we need to look at the process of reproduction. During sexual reproduction, two individuals contribute their genetic material to create offspring. Each parent's genetic material is passed on to the next generation through their gametes.

Gametes are produced through a special type of cell division called meiosis, which occurs specifically in the reproductive organs. Meiosis allows for the shuffling and recombination of genetic information, increasing genetic diversity in the offspring.

During meiosis, chromosomes in the parent cells undergo genetic recombination, resulting in new combinations of genetic material. These new combinations can include mutations, which are changes in the DNA sequence of a gene.

If a mutation occurs in a non-reproductive cell, such as a skin cell, it will only affect that individual organism and will not be passed on to future generations. This is because somatic (non-reproductive) cells cannot produce gametes and contribute to the next generation.

On the other hand, if a mutation occurs in a reproductive cell, such as a sperm or egg cell, it can be passed on to the offspring. When the mutated gamete fuses with another gamete during fertilization, the offspring will inherit the mutation in their genetic makeup.

Therefore, mutations that are passed on to offspring must occur in reproductive cells because these are the cells involved in the transmission of genetic material from one generation to the next.