Final answer:
The viral envelope aids in the virus's entry into host cells, the genetic material carries the virus's genetic code, and protein spikes are instrumental in attachment to host cells. The envelope and protein spikes work together to facilitate infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The functions of the envelope, genetic material, and protein spikes in a virus are vital to its ability to infect host cells. The envelope is typically made from portions of the host cell membranes and helps protect the virus from the host's immune system, as well as having receptor molecules that can bind to host cells to facilitate infection. The virus's genetic material, which can be either DNA or RNA, contains the necessary code to hijack the host cell's machinery for replicating the virus. Protein spikes, which can be glycoproteins, extend from the capsid or envelope of the virus and are crucial for attaching to and entering host cells.
Correct Answer
The correct statement regarding the functions of virus components is: The envelope helps the virus enter host cells, the genetic material contains the virus's genetic code, and the protein spikes help the virus attach to host cells. Thus, the accurate answer to the student's question is option 2.