BIOMOLECULES AND ENZYMES

Detailed explanation-1: -A single mutation can have a large effect, but in many cases, evolutionary change is based on the accumulation of many mutations with small effects. Mutational effects can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral, depending on their context or location. Most non-neutral mutations are deleterious.

Detailed explanation-2: -Genes contain information to make proteins, and proteins control many important functions like cell growth. Genetic mutations can change how proteins function. Some types of genetic mutations change proteins in ways that cause healthy cells to become cancerous.

Detailed explanation-3: -Gene mutations that build up in cells are called “acquired” or “somatic” mutations. Somatic mutations are caused by “wear and tear” damage on genes over time. Aging, exposure to hormones, environmental toxins, and certain viruses can cause mutations.

Detailed explanation-4: -There are three possible outcomes from a mutation event: (i) the mutant spreads through the population and replaces the residents, (ii) the mutants coexist with the residents, or (iii) the mutants go extinct.