Virology Basics 1

Question 1

Definition of a Virus

Answer 1

Small (filterable) Obligatory Intracellular Parasite

Question 2

Structure of a Virus

Answer 2

Contain a single type of Nucleic Acid surrounded by a protein coat

Question 3

The single type of Nucleic Acid that a virus contains can be ______________ or ______________ .

Answer 3

DNA or RNA
*Single Strand or Double Strand

Question 4

Where do viruses multiply?

Answer 4

ABSOLUTELY REQUIRE LIVING HOST CELLS IN ORDER TO MULTIPLY

Question 5

Viruses cause the synthesis of specialized structures that can transfer the viral _______________ to other cells.

Answer 5

Nucleic Acid

Question 6

Virus is a Latin word for _______________.

Answer 6

Poison

Question 7

Are viruses living organisms?

Answer 7

Technically, No

Question 8

Why are viruses considered NOT living organisms? (3 reasons)

Answer 8

1. They are inert outside living host cells.
2. Do not perform ANY metabolic
   processes
3. Cannot replicate on their own

Question 9

What protects the Nucleic Acid of a Virus?

Answer 9

A Protein Capsid (made of Capsomeres) that may be covered by an envelope.

Question 10

The envelope or capsid of a virus contains _____________________, which are a means of attachment to the host cells and can be a reliable characteristic for identification.

Answer 10

Spike Proteins