Viruses Flashcards
structure and characterisitics
What is the size range of viruses?
20-300nm
Viruses are microscopic and can only be studied using an electron microscope.
What are the two components that make up a virus?
Core of either DNA or RNA and a protein coat called a capsid
This structure is essential for the virus’s function and protection.
What is the nature of viruses in terms of cellular structure?
Acellular
Viruses do not have a cytoplasm or any membrane-bound organelles.
What essential biological processes can viruses not perform?
Respire, feed, or excrete waste
This lack of metabolic activity differentiates them from living organisms.
What do viruses lack that is found in all other living organisms?
Both DNA and RNA
Viruses only possess one type of nucleic acid at a time.
What is the role of chlorophyll in living organisms, and do viruses possess it?
Viruses do not have chlorophyll and are unable to make their own food by photosynthesis
This limits their ability to produce energy independently.
What type of parasites are viruses classified as?
Obligate internal parasites
They must infect a living organism to multiply.
Can viruses infect living organisms? If so, which types?
Yes, they can infect bacteria, protists, plants, and animals
Viruses that infect bacteria are specifically called bacteriophages.
What is the term for viruses that cause diseases?
Pathogenic
Viruses are responsible for various diseases in humans and other organisms.
Name three diseases in humans caused by viruses.
- HIV/AIDS
- Poliomyelitis
- Chickenpox
- Herpes
- Influenza
These diseases demonstrate the diverse impact of viruses on human health.
What happens to a virus if it cannot find a host?
They become dormant
This dormancy allows them to survive until a suitable host is available.
Fill in the blank: Viruses are studied using _______.
an electron microscope
True or False: All viruses have both DNA and RNA.
False
Viruses only have either DNA or RNA, not both.
