Australian Year 10 Biology Practice Test

Genetic mutations are known to introduce variations in traits within a population. Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence of an organism and can occur in various forms, such as point mutations, insertions, deletions, or duplications. These alterations can result in new traits or variations of existing traits, which can then be subjected to natural selection. The presence of different traits enhances the genetic diversity of a population, enabling it to adapt better to changing environments and increasing its chances of survival.

Variations brought about by mutations can lead to different phenotypes, providing a basis for evolution. For instance, if a mutation confers a beneficial trait that helps an organism survive or reproduce more effectively, that trait may become more common in the population over generations.

In summary, genetic mutations contribute significantly to the diversity of traits in a population, which is crucial for the process of evolution and adaptation.