How can mutations be harmful or beneficial (explain)?
Explain what information you understand the best. Explain the difference between genotype and phenotype? What strategy helped you remember genotype vs phenotype?
5-6 sentences
Mutations can be harmful if they result in a loss of function in a gene or disrupt normal cell processes, potentially leading to diseases or disorders. On the other hand, mutations can also be beneficial if they provide a genetic advantage, such as resistance to certain diseases or better ability to adapt to environmental changes.
I understand the concept of mutations being harmful or beneficial the best because it highlights the potential consequences of changes in an organism's DNA. This information demonstrates the importance of genetic diversity and evolutionary processes in shaping an organism's characteristics and survival.
Genotype refers to an individual's genetic makeup, or the specific sequence of DNA that they inherit from their parents, while phenotype refers to the physical traits or characteristics that result from the interaction between an individual's genotype and their environment. I remember the difference between genotype and phenotype by thinking of "genes" for genotype and "physical" for phenotype - genotype is the genetic information, while phenotype is the physical expression of that genetic information.