Mutation Causes

Mutation

A change in DNA sequence.

Mutagen

An environmental factor that causes mutations.

What are spontaneous mutations?

Mutations that occur without external mutagens due to natural errors in DNA processes.

What is a powerful mutagen released during the Chernobyl disaster?

Radiation.

What health impact did radiation exposure from Chernobyl have?

Increased cancer rates, leading to up to 1.4 million excess cases.

What are three examples of mutagens?

Radiation (e.g., UV rays, X-rays), Chemicals (e.g., cigarette smoke, pesticides), Infectious Agents (e.g., HPV, Helicobacter pylori).

What is the difference between a transition and a transversion mutation?

A transition swaps a purine for a purine or a pyrimidine for a pyrimidine; a transversion swaps a purine for a pyrimidine or vice versa.

What is the significance of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone despite radiation exposure?

It has become a wildlife sanctuary, showing how some species adapt to environmental changes.