Question

What is the effect of DNA copying which is not perfectly accurate on the reproduction process?

Answer 1

The biological process of creating two identical clones of DNA from a single original DNA molecule is known as DNA replication. All living creatures have DNA replication, which is the most important element of biological heredity. During cell division, it is a process by which DNA duplicates itself. A replication 'fork' is formed when two single strands of DNA are separated, forming a 'Y' shape. The two split strands will serve as templates for the creation of new DNA strands.

Complete answer:
Errors in the process of DNA copying or DNA replication leads to mutations which can affect the reproduction process in two ways –
If the mutation is cytotoxic it will lead to the death of a replicating cell and there would be no physical effect visible.
If the mutation is genotoxic i.e. affects the gene sequence it will lead to variations in the offspring and the parents. Gene mutations can lead to the formation of altered phenotype which gets inherited in further generations.
Thus, the effect of DNA copying which is not perfectly accurate on the reproduction process is the occurrence of variations in progeny and the parent.

Note:
The difference in DNA sequences between individuals within a community is referred to as genetic variation. Germ cells, such as sperm and eggs, as well as somatic (all other) cells, are subject to variation. Only germ cell variation may be passed on from one person to the next, affecting population dynamics and, ultimately, evolution. Variation is mostly caused by mutations and recombination.