Question

When you hear the term mutation, you usually think of change. But how do mutations influence traits that may be inherited?

Answer 1

Hereditary mutation - may be passed to another generation, occurs in gametes, variation that may enhance survival.

Somatic mutation - not passed from generation to generations, occurs in body cells.

Both- changes in DNA.

Explanation:

Mutations are defined as sudden changes in DNA that takes place by changing a particular nucleotide or a portion of DNA, or even a whole chromosome which has potential to change characters of an organism. Mutation was first proposed by Hugo de Vries who is also known as the Father of Mutation Theory.

Mutations can occur in any cell of body. It may occur in somatic cells, or in germ mother cells. But the mutations that occur in germ mother cells are actually the mutations that are carried forward by the gametes into next generations. Mutation in somatic cells get obliterated as the organism dies. And the Mutation in gamete cells are those mutations which are capable to cause variations in progenies which can led to better survival of the progenies.

Answer 2

heredity mutations- occurs in gametes, may be passed to another generation.

both- change in DNA, variation that may enhance survival

somatic mutation- occurs in body cells, not passed from generation to generation