Given all the bad things that mutations do, it seems counterintuitive that a low rate of mutation is actually good. What good could possibly come of mutation?
A) Mutation is essential if populations are to evolve over time.
B) Mutation is needed for DNA to encode proteins.
C) Mutation is needed when we are fighting an infection.
D) Mutation is essential to prevent cancer.
E) Mutation is needed if DNA is ever to be replicated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mutation is essential for evolution because it introduces genetic variation, which is a raw material for natural selection and allows populations to adapt to changing environments over time.

Given All the Bad Things That Mutations Do, It Seems