Answer:
i) Fertilization occurs when a male gamete fuses with a female gamete. Hence, this allows for genetic variations to occur as half of the chromosome arise from the male, and half from the female during the formation of the zygote, the processes of crossing over and independent assortment allow genetic variations to occur.
ii) Mutation causes genetic variations because due to mutation changes in the DNA of an individual occurs which lead to genetic variations.
iii)Three causes of mutations are:
a) Mutations through mutagens: Mutagen can arise through certain chemical compounds or radiations.
b) Mutations due to error in replication process: During the replication process, the DNA polymerase might make a mistake while adding the nucleotide to the new strand.
c) Heritable mutations: A mutation may be inherited from the parents.
Explanation:
