Mutations are changes in the DNA of living things. They are very important because they create differences in traits, which helps species evolve over time. Sometimes, mutations can help an organism survive better and have more babies. Let’s break down how mutations help create new traits:

1. Types of Mutations:

   • Point Mutations: These are changes to just one part of the DNA. This can change a protein that the DNA makes.
   • Insertions and Deletions: This means adding or removing small pieces of DNA. These changes can change how proteins work a lot.
   • Chromosomal Mutations: These are bigger changes that affect many genes at once. They can create completely new traits.

2. Impact on Survival:

   • Some mutations can give benefits, like better hiding in their surroundings or being stronger against sickness.
   • For example, some studies on peppered moths showed that those with darker colors could survive better in cities. Before industry, only about 1% of them were dark, but after, that number jumped to 95%.

3. Mutation Rates:

   • In humans, there are about 1 in 100 million chances of finding a mutation in one piece of DNA every generation.
   • On average, every person has around 60 new mutations that their parents didn’t have.

4. Evolutionary Importance:

   • The theory of natural selection says that organisms with helpful mutations are more likely to live longer and have babies. This means that over time, these helpful traits can spread through a population.
   • In bacteria, mutations can make them resistant to antibiotics, which changes how they survive.

In conclusion, mutations create genetic diversity, which is very important for adapting and evolving as environments change.