Viruses

Key Questions

  • Answer:

    Viruses do not have any characteristics of life.

    Explanation:

    Viruses are not made of cells, they do not require energy, they do not reproduce on their own, they do not grow or develop.

    They have a protein coat and genetic material, either DNA or RNA, which allow them to enter a host cell, combine its genetic material with the host's DNA, which will turn the host cell into a virus factory, in which the cell will manufacture virus parts and assemble them according to the instructions in the virus genetic material.

  • Answer:

    DNA or RNA contained within a protein shell.

    Explanation:

    Viruses are set up so that they can inject DNA or RNA into a living cell to hijack the cells production chain.

    The protein shell around the DNA is simply a mechanism to enter the host cell. Once the DNA or RNA is in the host cell the protein floats away (Not only do viruses make us sick, they litter in us too!)

    The DNA or RNA then changes what the cell is producing from whatever it's true purpose was, into a virus maker. The cell continues to make copies of the virus until it explodes and spreads those new viruses out into its surroundings.

Questions