3.34 Causes of mutation

3.34 understand that the incidence of mutations can be increased by exposure to ionising radiation (for example gamma rays, X-rays and ultraviolet rays) and some chemical mutagens (for example chemicals in tobacco)

Mutation – change in base sequence

1. Radiation
• Ionising radiation (e.g. gamma rays, X-rays)
• UV-B rays (sunshine) causes a mutation that causes skin cancer
2. Chemical – Mutagens
• Tars in Tobacco – can cause cancer
• Chemicals which cause mutation are called Mutagens
• Chemicals that cause mutation and cancer are called Carcinogens

End of Reproduction and Inheritance Topic