Question

Which of the following statements about mutations is FALSE?

a. Mutations always decrease an organism's fitness.
b. Somatic cell mutations do not lead to evolution.
c. Mutations occur in all species.
d. Mutations are the ultimate source of all genetic variability.
e. Mutations can be induced via ultraviolet radiation.

Answer 1

The statement that mutations always decrease an organism's fitness is false. Mutations can have a range of effects on an organism's fitness, including no effect or even an increase in fitness.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is a. Mutations always decrease an organism's fitness. This statement is false because mutations can have a range of effects on an organism's fitness. Some mutations may reduce an organism's fitness, but others may have no effect or even increase an organism's fitness. For example, a beneficial mutation that confers resistance to a disease may increase an organism's fitness.

Answer 2

A: Mutations always decrease an organism's fitness.

Step-by-step explanation:

Looking at the given options, the one that is false is option A because generally speaking, for a population whereby a trait is being exposed to stabilization of selection over time, the mean will certainly remain approximately the same.