Which statement is the most accurate definition of mutation?(1 point)

Responses

A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure of genetic information and cause diseases.
A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure of genetic information and cause diseases.

A mutation is a change in DNA that only causes diseases.
A mutation is a change in DNA that only causes diseases.

A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure and function of genetic information.
A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure and function of genetic information.

A mutation is a change in DNA that only causes survival advantages.

None of the given statements accurately define mutation as they either state that mutation only causes diseases or only causes survival advantages. Mutations can have various effects on an organism, including both beneficial and harmful consequences.

The most accurate definition of mutation is: A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure and function of genetic information.

The most accurate definition of mutation is the third statement: "A mutation is a change in DNA that can change the structure and function of genetic information."

Mutations are changes that occur in an organism's DNA sequence. These changes can involve alterations to a single nucleotide within a gene (known as a point mutation) or larger scale changes such as insertions, deletions, or rearrangements of DNA segments. Mutations can also occur in regulatory regions of the DNA, affecting gene expression.

It is important to note that not all mutations result in diseases. In fact, while some mutations can lead to genetic disorders and diseases, a large portion of mutations do not have any noticeable effect on an organism. Additionally, some mutations can actually be beneficial and provide a survival advantage, such as those that confer resistance to certain diseases or allow an organism to thrive in different environments. However, the statement "A mutation is a change in DNA that only causes survival advantages" is not accurate, as mutations can have a wide range of effects, including neutral or detrimental ones.

To arrive at the correct answer, it is necessary to understand the concept of mutation and its general effects on DNA structure and function, as well as being aware that mutations can have varying consequences, from disease-causing to beneficial or even having no noticeable effects.