Random errors in gene replication that lead to changes in nucleotide sequences are called?

Random errors in gene replication that lead to changes in nucleotide sequences are called?

• A. Mutations
• B. Biodiversity
• C. Artificial Selection
• D. Natural Selection

Answer: (A)

Mutations are changes in DNA that arise from random errors during DNA replication or from other mutational processes. These errors can alter one nucleotide or larger sequences, leading to new genetic variants. Although not all mutations have noticeable effects, some can change how genes function or how much they are expressed, providing the raw material that evolution acts upon through natural selection and genetic drift. This concept distinguishes mutations from biodiversity (the variety of life), artificial selection (human-driven breeding), and natural selection (differential survival and reproduction based on traits), which describe processes or outcomes rather than the source of genetic change.

Mutations are changes in DNA that arise from random errors during DNA replication or from other mutational processes. These errors can alter one nucleotide or larger sequences, leading to new genetic variants. Although not all mutations have noticeable effects, some can change how genes function or how much they are expressed, providing the raw material that evolution acts upon through natural selection and genetic drift. This concept distinguishes mutations from biodiversity (the variety of life), artificial selection (human-driven breeding), and natural selection (differential survival and reproduction based on traits), which describe processes or outcomes rather than the source of genetic change.