Question

fill in the blank question

mutations in dna that are caused by random mistakes in replication, and are not known to be the result of any mutagenic agent, are mutations.

Explanation:

Identify the definition of mutations occurring without mutagens

Mutations arising from natural, random errors during DNA replication rather than exposure to external physical or chemical mutagens are classified as spontaneous mutations.

Distinguish from induced mutations

Induced mutations are caused by environmental agents (mutagens), whereas spontaneous mutations occur naturally due to replication errors, tautomeric shifts, or spontaneous chemical changes in DNA.

Answer:

Mutations in DNA that are caused by random mistakes in replication, and are not known to be the result of any mutagenic agent, are <blank>spontaneous</blank> mutations.