What term describes a structural alteration in a gene producing minor or major shifts in an organism's physical traits ____________?
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Answer: D. mutation
Explanation
A mutation is defined as a permanent structural alteration in the DNA sequence of an organism. These genetic changes can directly lead to noticeable physical or functional trait variations in descendants. Changes in nucleotide sequences alter the resulting proteins, which ultimately shapes the observable organismal characteristics. DNA is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other living organisms on Earth. Mutations can happen spontaneously during DNA replication or be induced by environmental factors like radiation. Genetic variations introduced by mutations are a primary driving force behind the process of biological evolution.
Sickle cell anemia is caused by a specific genetic mutation affecting hemoglobin protein structure and function. Plant breeders often induce mutations to develop new crop varieties with enhanced resistance to harsh diseases. Understanding mutations is crucial for medical researchers developing targeted gene therapies for inherited human disorders. Mitosis is a cellular division process that produces two genetically identical daughter cells for growth. Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that reduces chromosome number to produce gametes. Parthenogenesis is a form of asexual reproduction where embryos grow and develop without fertilization by sperm.
- Subject
- Psychology
- Category
- Psychology
- Topic
- —
- Difficulty
- medium
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