How do mutations lead to genetic variation?

Mutations are completely random mistakes that occur in the DNA sequence of organisms. The theory goes that these mistakes sometimes fluke a mutation in the organism that makes it better adapted to its environment. read more

Mutations lead to genetic variation by producing random changes in an organism's genetic code. This causes a different protein to be produced, or none at all. Usually has a negative effect, due to an important protein, e.g. an enzyme, not being produced, so the organism cannot do a certain thing (e.g. digest fats), occasionally makes an organism better able to survive (positive effect). read more

Mutations can occur in non-reproductive cells and then they will not be passed to the next generation, thereforу will not contribute to genetic variation. Only mutations that occur in reproductive cells are passed on to the next generations and contribute to genetic variation in a population. read more