Radiation-induced mutations occur when exposure to ionizing radiation causes changes in the DNA sequence of an organism. This type of radiation can come from sources like X-rays, gamma rays, or radioactive materials. When DNA is damaged, it may lead to errors during replication, resulting in mutations that can affect an organism's traits. These mutations can have various effects, ranging from harmless to harmful. In some cases, they may contribute to the development of diseases, such as cancer. Understanding radiation-induced mutations is important for assessing the risks associated with radiation exposure in medical treatments, environmental settings, and occupational hazards.