Final answer:
Mutations in real life can result in significant changes to an organism, leading to beneficial or harmful effects; however, they do not lead to superhero-like abilities as depicted in the X-Men universe. Beneficial mutations can drive evolution, while harmful mutations may cause diseases like cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion from the X-Men universe that mutations can bring about not only supernatural abilities but also unrelated physical changes - like Kurt Wagner's teleportation ability, fangs, and a tail, or Mystique's shape-shifting ability and blue, scaly skin - while intriguing, is not reflective of reality. In biological terms, a mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can sometimes result in drastic changes within an organism. However, these mutations do not lead to superhero-like powers.
Beneficial mutations can lead to evolution, providing advantages such as improved abilities to survive in specific environments, like the white fur of some mice that helps them blend into snowy surroundings. Harmful mutations can be detrimental, potentially leading to diseases such as cancer. While mutations are a natural part of the genetic variation that drives evolution, they are not a gateway to becoming a superhero.
Exposure to mutagens, such as cigarette smoke, can increase the likelihood of mutations that may lead to cancer. Mutations can occur spontaneously or can be induced by external factors. It's important to note that mutations can sometimes make chromosomes longer or shorter, and not all mutations are caused by toxic substances.