Question

Choose all the answers that apply.

Mutations _____.
are random
are always harmful
add new genes to the gene pool
can be beneficial depending on the environment
are always inherited by offspring

Answer 1

Would you like to work through the list one by one?

Answer 2

A) They are random. mutations are random changes in the sequence of the nucleotide bases of DNA.
B) They are not always harmful. it could be harmful if it changes the code of the protein, while some are helpful by giving antibody resistance to the organisms.
C) It could add new genes to the gene pool if it is present in the gamete causing diversity in a species or population.
D) Can be beneficial depending on the environment. e.g sickle cells in places with high chances of malaria could be beneficial , while in environments with low chances of malaria, it could be harmful.
E) They are not always inherited by offspring. It depend on if the offspring gets the gene that is mutated.

Answer 3

add new genes to the gene pool
can be beneficial depending on the environment
are "sometimes" inherited by offspring

Answer 4

are random
add new genes to the gene pool
can be beneficial depending on the environment