Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection states that there is a struggle to survive as organisms compete for resources and try to avoid predation. Over time, the organisms best adapted will survive and pass their traits on to offspring. Which of the following is the best explanation of the role mutations play in natural selection?

Question 9 options:

All mutations in somatic cells are passed on to offspring and over time as mutations are passed down through generations, populations will change.


Mutations that occur in gametes are always fatal to offspring which prevents new traits from entering into a gene pool.


Mutations provide variation within a population and environmental pressures select for or against these adaptations.


Mutations are always harmful and organisms with mutations will be selected against, leaving those that are best adapted to pass their traits on to offspring