What is meant by a mutation and explain the effects a mutation could have in a population of organisms.

A mutation is a distinct form resulting from a change in the structure of a gene or the changing of the structure of a gene, resulting in a variant form that may be transmitted to subsequent generations, caused by the alteration of single base units in DNA, or the deletion, insertion, or rearrangement of larger sections of genes or chromosomes.

The effects are cystic fibrosis , sickle cell , anemia etc