Question

1. explain how mutations create genetic variation.

Explanation:

Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence. They can occur spontaneously or due to environmental factors like radiation or chemicals. These changes can affect the genes. Genes carry instructions for making proteins. Different proteins (due to mutated genes) can lead to different traits. For example, a mutation might change the color of a flower's petal or a person's eye color. Since traits are part of an organism's genetic makeup, these new traits from mutations add to the genetic variation (differences in genetic material) within a population.

Answer:

Mutations are changes in DNA. They can alter genes (which code for proteins). New or altered proteins can result in new traits. These new traits contribute to genetic variation as they are differences in the genetic material (DNA) among individuals in a population.