Question

Reviewing Mutations
Which statements about mutations are true? Check all that apply.

Mutations cannot be passed from generation to generation.

Mutations are rare.

Mutations are always harmful.

Germline mutations occur in body cells.

Most forms of cancer are caused by somatic

Answer 1

True:
- Mutations are rare. — Individual mutations at a given site are uncommon events (though many mutations arise across a whole genome/population).
- Most forms of cancer are caused by somatic mutations. — Most cancers result from acquired (somatic) mutations in body cells, not inherited germline changes.

False:
- Mutations cannot be passed from generation to generation. — False: germline mutations (in gametes) can be inherited.
- Mutations are always harmful. — False: mutations can be harmful, neutral, or beneficial.
- Germline mutations occur in body cells. — False: germline mutations occur in germ cells (sperm or egg precursors); body (somatic) cells have somatic mutations.