Practice IB Biology Topic D1.3 Mutations and Gene Editing with authentic exam-style questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank focuses on the exact syllabus content for D1.3 Mutations and Gene Editing and mirrors Paper 1A, 1B, 2 style where relevant.
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All genotypes have equal survival. Which statement correctly distinguishes the consequences of these substitutions?
Table 1: Substitution effects
| Genotype | Amino acid | Expected offspring per individual |
|---|---|---|
| Original | Glutamate | 100 |
| P | Glutamate | 80 |
| Q | Valine | 100 |
…
One base is inserted at codon 20 and two at codon 60. Protein after codon 60 matches wild type, but the essential intervening domain is inactive. Which explanation fits?
Mutations are considered random even when mutagens are present. Which of the following explains why?
Which location and inheritance prediction are supported?
| Sample | Cells containing mutation / % |
|---|---|
| blood | 0 |
| cheek | 0 |
| sperm | 25 |
Changes in DNA can have wide-ranging biological effects.
(a) the form and function of DNA and RNA.
(b) how mutations can affect proteins.
(c) the potential benefits and risks of gene editing technologies.
Three inserted bases create one codon, leaving every original domain codon unchanged.
Each insertion changes only one local codon, so every other domain codon retains its original grouping.
The later insertion reverses all amino-acid changes caused by the first insertion.
The later insertion restores downstream grouping, but the shifted interval can disable the domain.
Mutagens mainly cause random base substitutions rather than directing specific, adaptive changes.
DNA polymerase proofreading eliminates all replication errors, so mutations cannot be directed.
Mutagens increase mutation rate but not the exact site.
Mutagens preferentially target genes needed in the current environment to increase survival.
Somatic cells only; every offspring inherits the mutation
Somatic cells only; no offspring inherits the mutation
Some germ cells; some offspring can inherit the mutation
Some germ cells; every offspring inherits the mutation
