Question

Which of the following are capable of causing dna mutation? select all that apply.

a) Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
b) X-rays
c) High-fiber diet
d) Chemical pollutants
e) Regular exercise

Answer 1

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, X-rays, and chemical pollutants are capable of causing DNA mutations since they are considered mutagens that can lead to changes in the DNA structure and function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The agents capable of causing DNA mutations are known as mutagens. Among the options listed, Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, X-rays, and chemical pollutants can all cause mutations. UV radiation causes mutations by inducing the formation of pyrimidine dimers (thymine dimers), which lead to bulges in the DNA helix and potential replication errors. X-rays, a form of ionizing radiation, can result in single- and double-stranded breaks in the DNA backbone and modify bases such as the deamination of cytosine to uracil. Chemical pollutants, which include various chemicals, can also cause mutations through modification of DNA bases or insertion between bases (intercalating agents). However, a high-fiber diet and regular exercise are not generally known to induce DNA mutations.