Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

What is a mutation?

1. A change in cell structure

2. A change in chromosome number

3. A change in a cell's genetic material

4. Uncontrolled cell division

The correct answer is: A change in cell structure

A mutation refers specifically to a change in a cell's genetic material. This encompasses alterations in the DNA sequence, which can affect how genes are expressed and ultimately influence an organism's traits. Mutations can occur naturally or be induced by environmental factors, and they can lead to genetic diversity within a population. The other options focus on different biological phenomena. A change in cell structure relates to cellular morphology and organization, rather than genetic information. A change in chromosome number would refer to conditions such as aneuploidy and doesn’t encompass the broader definition of mutation. Uncontrolled cell division is associated with cancerous processes and does not directly define what a mutation is. Thus, the chosen answer clearly captures the essence of what a mutation entails.