What is a mutation in genetic terms?

A mutation in genetic terms refers to a change in the nucleotide sequence of the genome. This alteration can occur in various ways, including substitutions of one base for another, deletions or insertions of DNA segments, or larger chromosomal rearrangements. These changes in the sequence can have a variety of effects on an organism, ranging from no observable impact to significant alterations in phenotype, which can influence an organism's survival and reproductive success.

Mutations play a crucial role in the process of evolution as they introduce new genetic variation into a population. This variation is essential for natural selection as it provides the raw material upon which selective pressure can act. Over time, beneficial mutations may become more common within a population, while deleterious mutations may be purged from the gene pool.

By understanding mutations as fundamental alterations in the genetic code, one can appreciate their significance in biodiversity and evolutionary processes.