You are right about everything except 'What is your mother look like?' We don't say that. Instead, we say, 'What DOES your mother look like?' I hope that helps!

Thanks Jennife, very useful answer

I think the questions can mean a few things in general *How is your mother?* Can come be asking for how is she feeling (healthwise) or asking about her state (busy, tired, happy) *What is your mother like?* Can be general too It isn't limited by only physical appearance as it includes other descriptive features like "What is her personality like" "What does your mother look like" would be more specific in asking about her physical appearance