What is a mutation?

A mutation refers specifically to a change in the DNA sequence of a cell. This alteration can occur in various ways, such as substitutions, insertions, or deletions of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. Mutations can happen naturally during DNA replication or be induced by environmental factors, but the defining characteristic is that they result in a permanent change to the genetic material. This change can affect how genes function, potentially leading to variations in traits exhibited by an organism, which plays a critical role in the biological diversity observed within populations. Understanding mutations is essential as they contribute to evolution and the adaptation of organisms to their environments.