What term refers to chemical or physical agents in the environment that cause mutations?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for your Honors Biology Final Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions complete with hints and explanations. Score high on your exam!

Multiple Choice

What term refers to chemical or physical agents in the environment that cause mutations?

Explanation:
Mutagens are chemical or physical agents that cause mutations in DNA. They can damage DNA directly or interfere with its replication, leading to changes such as base substitutions, insertions, deletions, or chromosomal rearrangements. Examples include UV radiation from the sun, X-rays, and chemicals like certain hydrocarbons or alkylating agents. This term specifically describes agents that induce genetic changes, unlike the genome (the full genetic material), polyploidy (more than two chromosome sets), or karyotype (the number and appearance of chromosomes). So mutagen is the best answer.

Mutagens are chemical or physical agents that cause mutations in DNA. They can damage DNA directly or interfere with its replication, leading to changes such as base substitutions, insertions, deletions, or chromosomal rearrangements. Examples include UV radiation from the sun, X-rays, and chemicals like certain hydrocarbons or alkylating agents. This term specifically describes agents that induce genetic changes, unlike the genome (the full genetic material), polyploidy (more than two chromosome sets), or karyotype (the number and appearance of chromosomes). So mutagen is the best answer.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy