Viruses

Front

What is a virus?

Back

A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.

Front

What is the structure of a virus?

Back

A virus typically consists of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid, and some viruses have an outer envelope made from the host cell's membrane.

Front

How do viruses obtain their envelopes?

Back

Viruses obtain their envelopes from the host cell's membrane during the process of budding.

Front

What is the function of the capsid in a virus?

Back

The capsid protects the viral genetic material and helps the virus attach to and enter host cells.

Front

What are surface markers on a virus?

Back

Surface markers are proteins on the virus's surface that allow it to recognize and attach to specific host cells.

Front

How do viruses differ from living cells?

Back

Viruses cannot reproduce on their own and do not carry out metabolic processes; they require a host cell to replicate.

Front

What do viruses and living cells have in common?

Back

Both viruses and living cells store genetic information.

Front

What is a viral infection?

Back

A viral infection occurs when a virus enters a host organism, replicates, and causes disease.

Front

What is the role of viral DNA or RNA?

Back

Viral DNA or RNA carries the genetic instructions necessary for the virus to replicate and produce new virus particles.

Front

What is the difference between DNA viruses and RNA viruses?

Back

DNA viruses contain DNA as their genetic material, while RNA viruses contain RNA.