A mutation is a change in DNA or genetic material. It can happen naturally or because of things like radiation, chemicals, or copying errors, and it may be harmless, harmful, or occasionally helpful.

Quick Scoop

In biology, mutations are basically edits in the genetic code. They can affect how a protein works, which may change a trait, but many mutations have no noticeable effect at all.

Simple examples

  • A small DNA typo during cell division.
  • A change caused by UV light or certain chemicals.
  • A mutation passed from parents to offspring if it happens in egg or sperm cells.

Why it matters

Mutations are one reason living things vary from one another, and they are also important in evolution and some diseases, including cancer.

If you want, I can also explain mutation in plain everyday language , types of mutations , or mutation vs. gene.