`"_______"` is the process by which genetic variation are created through changes in the base sequence within genes.

Options

A. Somatic hybrid
B. Micropropagation
C. Mutation
D. Polyploidy

Answer

To answer the question, we need to identify the correct term that fits into the blank in the statement: "_______ is the process by which genetic variations are created through changes in the base sequence within genes."

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Question**: The question is asking for a term that describes a process leading to genetic variation through changes in the DNA sequence.

2. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **Somatic Hybrid**: This refers to the fusion of cells from two different species, which creates hybrids but does not specifically involve changes in the base sequence of genes.
- **Micropropagation**: This is a technique for growing plants in vitro (in a controlled environment), which does not involve genetic changes at the base sequence level.
- **Mutation**: This refers to any change in the base sequence of DNA, which directly leads to genetic variation. This is a strong candidate.
- **Polyploidy**: This involves having more than two complete sets of chromosomes and does not refer to changes in the base sequence of individual genes.

3. **Identify the Correct Answer**:
- After evaluating the options, **Mutation** is the only term that describes the process of changes in the base sequence within genes leading to genetic variation.

4. **Fill in the Blank**: Therefore, the correct answer to fill in the blank is **"Mutation."**

### Final Answer:
**Mutation** is the process by which genetic variation is created through changes in the base sequence within genes.

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