A Gene Mutation ______________

Question

A gene mutation ______________.  
A) is a temporary change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA
B) may be caused by environmental agents
C) always arises spontaneously
D) occurs only in eukaryotes
E) is always damaging to the organism

Accepted Answer

Gene mutations can be caused by environmental agents such as radiation, chemicals, and viruses. They can also occur spontaneously due to errors during DNA replication or repair. Not all mutations are damaging, some can be neutral or even beneficial depending on their effects on the organism's phenotype. Additionally, mutations can occur in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.