Which type of mutation occurs only in reproductive cells?

somatic mutation

germline mutation

point mutation

frameshift mutation

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Which best describes genetic mutations?

Some inherited genetic mutations can be good for the offspring.

Different genetic mutations cause few forms of cancer.

Somatic mutations can be inherited from parents or acquired during life.

Genetic mutations that cause diseases are always passed on to offspring.

Which statement is scientifically based?

Mutations rarely occur.

All mutations are harmful.

Some mutations can be contagious, like infections.

Mutations are not passed from parent to offspring.

A mutagen is

a living thing that has undergone a mutation.

an agent that causes a mutation in DNA.

a mutation that has affected one gene.

any chemical that can poison living cells.

Based on scientific research, which statement best describes mutations?

Mutations are rare occurrences.

Mutations are always harmful.

Mutations cannot be inherited.

Mutations cannot be acquired.

The DNA sequence reads ACGTTCATT before a mutation occurs. After the mutation, the DNA sequence reads ATCGTTCATT. Which type of mutation occurred?

substitution

insertion

deletion

point

Many different types of mutations can occur within the body. Sickle cell anemia is a disease that occurs when a mutation in a base pair of the hemoglobin beta gene causes a single replacement of the amino acid glutamic acid by the amino acid valine. As a result of this mutation, the individual’s blood cells take on a sickle shape under certain conditions and form clusters that can block blood vessels and cause organ damage. Which type of mutation causes sickle cell anemia?

silent

missense

insertion

frameshift

A point mutation changes the DNA sequence CGA to CGT, but the same protein is still produced. Which point mutation occurred?

nonsense

missense

silent

frameshift

Which type of mutation always produces a stop codon?

missense

nonsense

silent

point

A scientist thinks that a certain chemical is a mutagen. She exposes plant cells to a large amount of this chemical in the laboratory. Which statement best provides evidence that the substance is a mutagen?

The cells die within hours of being exposed to the chemical.

The cells grow more quickly than those that were not exposed to the chemical.

The cells change after being exposed to the chemical, and this change is passed to the next generation of cells.

The cells continue to divide at the same rate as before they were exposed to the chemical.

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