Question

What is the outer coat of proteins called that surrounds the core of a virus?

Answer 1

Virus particles contain a viral genome packaged in a protein coat called the capsid.

Explanation:

It consists of several oligomeric structural subunits made of proteins called protomeres. Majority of viruses have capsids with either helical or icosahedral structures.

For some viruses, the capsid is surrounded by lipid bilayer envelop that contains viral proteins. Capsids and envelops determine the method of viral entry into and exit from the host cells. They also play a major role in viral infection, including virus attachment to the cells and packaging of newly formed viral particles.

In general non enveloped viruses are more stable and can survive much longer in the environment.