Final answer:
When a cell's DNA is distorted by a volatile organic compound, it is an induced mutation caused by chemicals. These mutations can result in various DNA errors that can sometimes be repaired by cellular mechanisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
A volatile organic compound that distorts a cell's DNA would be considered a chemical mutagen. These substances induce changes in DNA by altering the structure or sequence of the DNA, ultimately leading to mutations. Chemical mutagens like the one described can directly damage DNA or interfere with DNA replication, resulting in a myriad of possible mutations like base pair substitutions, insertions, deletions, or even larger structural changes in the chromosomes.
The correct answer to the question posed by the student is that the mutation described is caused by chemicals. This type of mutation is referred to as an induced mutation, in contrast to spontaneous mutations that occur without external influence during regular cellular operations like DNA replication. Other known inducers of mutation include ultraviolet light which can cause pyrimidine dimers, or ionizing radiation like X-rays that can break the DNA backbone or alter the bases.
Cells, however, are not defenseless against such DNA damage. They possess mechanisms to repair such mutations, with systems dedicated to error checking during DNA replication as well as specialized repair mechanisms like nucleotide excision repair.
In conclusion, a cell's DNA distorted by a volatile organic compound indicates a mutation caused by chemicals. This falls under induced mutations and contrasts with spontaneous mutations that occur without direct external influence.