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A mutagen is an agent that changes the genetic material (usually DNA) of a cell which leads to a change in the frequency of mutation in a cell.
A cell exposed to X-ray radiation of sufficient energy is subjected to ionising radiation. Ionising radiation is capable of displacing orbital electrons from their parent atoms. Thus atoms exposed to X-rays of sufficient energy become ionised.
DNA is a molecular structure. Molecules are the electrically neutral grouping of at least two atoms by a covalent chemical bond.
So exposing a cell to X-ray radiation (with sufficient energy) will change the charge of the atoms of the molecules of the cell.
Attacking DNA molecules in this fashion produces free radicals within the DNA molecule. Free radicals are a type of oxidising agent which is a type of mutagen that changes the DNA sequence.
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What are some mutagen examples?
Most common mutagens:Ionizing radiation such as xrays, gamma rays and alpha particlesUltraviolet (tanning beds)Intercalating agentsBenzeneChemical spills
Is diabetes a mutagen?
No. Diabetes is a condition, not a substance, and therefore cannot be a "mutagen".
What is the most common mutagen?
Ionizing radiation is the most common form of mutagen.
When was Environmental Mutagen Society created?
Environmental Mutagen Society was created in 1969.
How does a mutagen work?
Mutagen turns people into what animal it most recently been in contact with.
How might a mutagen cause cancer?
A mutagen could change a gene that tells a cell when to stop growing.
What is physicial or chemical agents known as that can cause mutagen?
a change in the mRNA makes a mutation of the DNA
A what is a physical or chemical agent that causes damage to DNA?
What is a physical or chemical agent that changes the nucleotide sequence of DNA?
What is a example of mutagen?
asbestos
If you have just learned that a chemical you work with is a mutagen What effect does this chemical have?
If you have just learned that a chemical you work with is a mutagen What effect does this chemical have?
Is carbon tetrachloride a mutagen?
of course it is!
What are 2 examples of mutagen?
smoking
