Final answer:
The true statement that DNA damage can lead to mutations is explained by induced and spontaneous mutations, with environmental factors like mutagens causing induced mutations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Damage to DNA can cause mutation' is true. DNA mutations can result from errors during DNA replication or from damage to DNA caused by environmental factors. Induced mutations are a direct consequence of exposure to mutagens like chemicals, UV radiation, and x-rays, whereas spontaneous mutations occur naturally without external influence. These alterations in the nucleotide sequence can lead to various outcomes, sometimes beneficial and other times harmful to the organism. Understanding the mechanisms of DNA repair is vital since some mutations can have significant consequences, such as the development of cancer.
For example, UV radiation can cause bonding between adjacent nucleotides in DNA, which can lead to bulges in the DNA double helix and subsequent mutation.