**Core Concept**
Becker's muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. It is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, leading to the production of an abnormal, truncated dystrophin protein.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Becker's muscular dystrophy is inherited in an X-linked recessive pattern, meaning the mutated gene is located on the X chromosome. Females can be carriers of the mutated gene, while males are more frequently affected due to their single X chromosome. The mutation leads to a partial loss of dystrophin function, resulting in muscle weakness and degeneration. The dystrophin protein plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle cell integrity and function.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Autosomal dominant inheritance is incorrect because Becker's muscular dystrophy is not caused by a dominant mutation, and females are not typically affected.
**Option B:** Autosomal recessive inheritance is incorrect because the mutated gene is located on the X chromosome, not an autosomal chromosome.
**Option C:** Mitochondrial inheritance is incorrect because Becker's muscular dystrophy is not associated with mitochondrial DNA mutations.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Becker's muscular dystrophy is often considered a milder form of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, another X-linked dystrophy. However, it is essential to note that both conditions have a significant impact on patients' quality of life and require timely diagnosis and management.

**Correct Answer: D. X-linked recessive.**