What type of genetic variation does mutation provide?

Mutation is a fundamental source of genetic variation within populations. It involves changes to the DNA sequence, which can lead to the introduction of new alleles—different forms of a gene. These alterations in the genetic code can result in changes to traits that are expressed in an organism, ultimately influencing characteristics such as appearance, behavior, and physiology. Because mutations can introduce new genetic material into a population, they serve as a crucial mechanism through which evolution operates, allowing for the adaptation of organisms to their environments over time.

This genetic variation is essential for the process of natural selection, as it provides a pool of traits from which advantageous characteristics can be selected, leading to the evolution of species. In summary, the type of genetic variation provided by mutation is directly linked to the genetic traits of organisms, making this option the correct choice.