Based on scientific research, which statement best describes mutations?

Mutations are alterations in the DNA sequence that can occur naturally or be induced by environmental factors. They can lead to changes in the genes, which may result in various effects on organisms. Some mutations may be neutral, having no significant impact on the organism, while others can be beneficial or harmful. Beneficial mutations may confer advantages to an organism, such as increased resistance to disease or improved adaptation to environmental conditions, while harmful mutations can lead to genetic disorders or increased vulnerability to certain conditions. Additionally, mutations play a crucial role in evolution as they introduce genetic variations within a population, which may be acted upon by natural selection. Overall, mutations can significantly influence an organism's phenotype and contribute to the diversity of life forms.