Question

One of the most unusual aspects of virus particles is the absence of all organelles and other smaller structures. Whereas cells have many kinds of organelles, viruses consist of only two parts: a nucleic acid core made of DNA or RNA, and a tough, potective protein shell. Which name is given to this tough shell made of protein?

Answer 1

The capsid is the tough outer protective shell of a virus particle.

Answer 2

Caspid

Step-by-step explanation:

It is the protein shell which contains the nucleic acid. The shell is comprised of the proteins that are organized in subunits called Capsomers.

Functions of caspid:

1) It gives the nucleic acid protection from enzymes which can digest it

2) There are special sites on its surface that help it to attach to a host cell

3) Contains proteins that help the virion to enter the host cell membrane

4) Sometimes under favourable conditions,viral RNA with some other proteins can assemble the caspid to become infectious virus.