Assertion : A single mutation may produce a new species .
Reason : Mutation may cause major variation in genetic material and these are inheritable .

Options

A. If both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
B. If both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. If A is true and R is false
D. If both A and R are false

Answer

To analyze the assertion and reason provided in the question, we will break down the concepts of mutation, its role in evolution, and how it relates to the formation of new species.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Mutation**:
- A mutation is defined as any change in the nucleotide sequence of an organism's genome. This can include single nucleotide changes, multiple nucleotide changes, or even larger chromosomal changes.
- Mutations can be caused by various factors such as exposure to radiation, chemicals, environmental factors, or errors during DNA replication.

**Hint**: Remember that mutations are changes in the genetic material that can occur due to various external and internal factors.

2. **Role of Mutation in Evolution**:
- Mutations are fundamental to the process of evolution. They introduce genetic variation into a population.
- Small mutations can accumulate over time, leading to significant changes in the genetic makeup of a population. This accumulation can eventually result in the emergence of new species.

**Hint**: Think of mutations as the building blocks of genetic diversity that can lead to evolutionary changes.

3. **Analyzing the Assertion**:
- The assertion states that "A single mutation may produce a new species." This is plausible because a single mutation can lead to significant changes in an organism, which, over time and through the process of natural selection, can result in speciation (the formation of new species).

**Hint**: Consider how even a small change can have large effects over generations.

4. **Analyzing the Reason**:
- The reason states that "Mutation may cause major variation in genetic material and these are inheritable." This is also true. Mutations can lead to variations that are passed down to subsequent generations, contributing to the genetic diversity necessary for evolution.

**Hint**: Inheritable mutations are crucial for evolution as they can be passed on to offspring.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Both the assertion and the reason are true. Furthermore, the reason provides a correct explanation for the assertion. Therefore, the correct answer is that both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

**Final Answer**: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.