Question: Evolution is caused by a mutation of the cells. Why is it that this mutation helps that organism to survive better?

Sara Imari Walker answered on 15 Jun 2011:

Hey cai! Mutations are completely random, some are good but most are bad. However, the ones that are good can really benefit cells, making them more likely to survive and reproduce than others not possessing that good mutation. So, good mutations tend to accumulate. Think for example if I am the only one in a population who can digest wheat, and wheat is an abundant food source. Good for me!! I am more likely to be nice and full than my friends since they cannot eat wheat. This is what is typically called “natural selection” in Darwin’s evolution. Cells and organisms with bad mutations tend to die before reproducing so those mutations don’t usually carry over from generation to generation. But ones with good mutations survive and reproduce. Survival of the fittest!!