Viral Structure

Front

What do viruses have in common with living cells?

Back

They both store genetic information.

Front

Viruses are classified as:

Back

non-living.

Front

One reason that viruses are considered to be nonliving is that they are not made of:

Back

cells.

Front

Where do some viruses get their envelopes made of cell membranes?

Back

From the host cell.

Front

What is the purpose of projections on a virus?

Back

To attach to the host cell.

Front

What is the basic structure of a virus?

Back

A virus typically consists of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat (capsid).

Front

What is a capsid?

Back

A capsid is the protein shell that encases the viral genetic material.

Front

What is the role of viral genetic material?

Back

It contains the instructions for making new virus particles.

Front

How do viruses reproduce?

Back

Viruses reproduce by infecting a host cell and hijacking its machinery to produce new viruses.

Front

What is a viral envelope?

Back

A viral envelope is a lipid membrane that surrounds some viruses, derived from the host cell's membrane.