Mutation leads to evolution because it

Step 1: Analyze the question We are asked why mutation leads to evolution. We need the option that explains how mutation contributes to evolutionary change.

Step 2: Explain the concept A mutation is a sudden, permanent change in the genetic material (DNA or chromosomes) of an organism. Evolution is the gradual change in the inherited characteristics of a population over many generations. For evolution to happen, there must be variation among individuals. Mutation is one of the main sources of new variation. When a mutation occurs in the reproductive (gamete) cells, it can be passed to offspring. These offspring then show new traits that were not present in their parents. If a new trait helps the organism survive and reproduce in its environment, natural selection favors it, and it becomes more common over generations. That is evolution.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Kills all organisms where it has occurred. Wrong. Many mutations are harmless or even beneficial, and if all mutated organisms died, no change could accumulate.
• B. Gives rise to offspring having same characteristics as the parents. Wrong. This describes heredity without variation, which would produce no change.
• C. Does not confer adaptability to the offspring. Wrong. Some mutations do confer adaptability, and these are the ones natural selection favors.
• D. Gives rise to new individuals that differ from their parents. Correct. This is the variation that evolution depends on.

Step 4: Answer

Tip: Remember the chain Mutation → Variation → Natural selection → Evolution. If an option mentions "new" or "different" traits, it is usually pointing toward the right answer. Options saying "same," "all die," or "no adaptation" usually do not support evolution.