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

Question

Responses

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.

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.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

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

Mutations in body cells (somatic mutations) do not contribute to genetic variation in the population because they are not transmitted to the next generation. Only mutations in germ cells (gametes) can be passed on to offspring and contribute to genetic variation.