Final answer:
The common feature found in all viruses is nucleic acid surrounded by a protein capsid. This is because all virions have a nucleic acid genome (either RNA or DNA) that is covered by a protective protein layer called a capsid, made up of subunits termed capsomeres.
So, the correct answer is C. nucleic acid surrounded by a protein capsid.
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Step-by-step explanation:
All viruses share the common feature of having their nucleic acid genome (either RNA or DNA) surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid, comprised of protein subunits known as capsomeres. Not all viruses have an envelope or DNA as their genetic material, as some have RNA instead, and some lack a viral envelope.
It's important to note that while glycoproteins help certain viruses, like HIV, attach to the host cell, and some viruses like the influenza virus or HIV have an outer lipid bilayer known as a viral envelope, these are not characteristics that apply to every virus. Therefore, the correct answer is nucleic acid surrounded by a protein capsid, which is an essential component of every virus.
So, the correct answer is C. nucleic acid surrounded by a protein capsid.