Mutation rate refers to the frequency at which mutations occur in a population's genetic material over a specific period of time. This concept is crucial for understanding the genetic diversity and adaptability of populations, influencing how quickly they can respond to environmental changes and the effectiveness of various genetic operators like selection, crossover, and mutation. It plays a significant role in shaping the evolution of populations and is essential for the dynamics of genetic algorithms and programming.
congrats on reading the definition of mutation rate. now let's actually learn it.