Which mutation occurs when a part of a DNA sequence is flipped?

An inversion mutation occurs when a segment of a DNA sequence is removed and then reinserted in the opposite orientation. This specific type of mutation can result in significant changes to the genetic code because the order of the genes is essential for proper gene expression and function. By altering the orientation of the segment, an inversion can disrupt regulatory sequences or gene functions, which may lead to various biological effects.

This contrast with other types of mutations is important. Breakage mutations might refer to physical disruptions of the DNA structure, typically leading to various forms of alterations but not specifically to the flipping of a sequence. Deletion mutations involve the loss of a segment of DNA, which would remove genetic material rather than rearranging it. Nondisjunction mutations are related to errors in chromosomal separation during cell division, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes, which is different from the idea of flipping a section of DNA. Therefore, the answer reflects the correct concept of a genetic mutation where the orientation of a DNA segment is reversed.