Question

Which two mutations are considered neutral for an organism with the mutation?


a mutation that changes the DNA but still codes for the same protein


a mutation that causes a protein to fold in a different pattern


a mutation that causes a protein to be produced in a much smaller quantity


a mutation that is repaired by the organism's natural processes


a mutation that increases the energy production for the organism

Answer 1

- a mutation that changes the DNA but still codes for the same protein (a silent/synonymous mutation)
- a mutation that is repaired by the organism's natural processes

Both produce no lasting change in phenotype or fitness: the first alters sequence without changing the protein, and the second is corrected so it has no lasting effect.