genetic change

In biology, a mutation is a permanent alteration in an organism's genetic material that can be passed to descendants. These changes can occur in body cells (somatic mutations), potentially leading to conditions like cancer, or in reproductive cells (germinal mutations), affecting offspring and possibly causing genetic diseases. Mutations arise from errors during DNA replication or exposure to radiation and chemicals. While often detrimental, some mutations can be beneficial in specific environments. Mutations are the primary source of genetic variation, which is essential for evolution through natural selection.12