Question

A virus is referred to as a particle rather than a cell because structurally it is a ________.

1) nucleus surrounded by a protein coat
2) plasmid of DNA surrounded by a capsid
3) RNA or DNA core surrounded by a protein coat

Answer 1

A virus consists of a nucleic acid core encased in a protein coat or capsid, distinguishing it as a particle rather than a cell, and it requires a host to reproduce.

Step-by-step explanation:

A virus is referred to as a particle rather than a cell because structurally it is a nucleic acid core (either RNA or DNA) surrounded by a protective protein coat called a capsid. Unlike cells, viruses lack membrane-bound organelles and cytoplasm, and can only replicate within a host organism's cells. A single virus particle, known as a virion, carries just the essential components for infection: its genetic material and the protein coat. Some viruses may also have an outer envelope derived from the host cell's membrane, but this is not a universal feature among all viruses.