CLEP Biology

Answer: C - The type of mutation that results in a loss of genetic material is a deletion. In a deletion, one or more nucleotides are removed from the DNA.

Key Takeaway: A mutation is a randomly occurring alteration in the nucleoside sequence of DNA. Mutations can occur during DNA replication or as the result of exposure to external sources such as sunlight or mutagens (mutation-inducing substances) such as radiation or chemicals. Mutations result in a change to the reading frame of DNA, which can result in changes to RNA and proteins.