Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A gene is the fundamental unit of heredity.
It has specific characteristics.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to understand the definition of a gene.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
A gene is a basic unit of heredity (A is correct).
It is a sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA (B is correct).
It encodes the synthesis of either RNA or protein (C is correct).
Genes can be mutated naturally (D is incorrect).
Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence.
Thus, the incorrect statement is that genes cannot be mutated.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Genes cannot be mutated naturally is the incorrect statement.
Hence, the correct option is (D).