Question

Question
Do mutations in body cells contribute to genetic variation?(1 point)
Responses

Yes, these body cell mutations lead to mutations in the gametes.
Yes, these body cell mutations lead to mutations in the gametes.

Yes, the mutations can be passed on to offspring and contribute to variation in the population.
Yes, the mutations can be passed on to offspring and contribute to variation in the population.

No, the mutations cannot be passed to offspring and only affect the individual.
No, the mutations cannot be passed to offspring and only affect the individual.

No, the causes of body cell mutations are outside the body and cannot alter DNA.
No, the causes of body cell mutations are outside the body and cannot alter DNA.
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Answer 1

No — the mutations cannot be passed to offspring and only affect the individual.

Explanation: Mutations in somatic (body) cells are not present in gametes, so they aren't inherited. Only mutations in germline cells (sperm or eggs) can be passed to offspring and contribute to population genetic variation.