Final answer:
The new virus with a linear, RNA genome and a helical capsid is most likely a member of the Rhabdoviridae family based on its structural classification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scientist has discovered a new virus with a linear, RNA genome surrounded by a helical capsid. Based on structure classification, viruses with enveloped helical capsids and a single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) genome, such as the rabies virus, are classified under the Rhabdoviridae family. Thus, the correct answer to which family the virus most likely belongs is d) Rhabdoviridae.The characteristics of a linear RNA genome surrounded by a helical capsid provide important clues for classifying the virus into a specific family. Based on the given features, the most likely family is the Rhabdoviridae.Rhabdoviridae is a family of viruses known for its distinctive bullet-shaped morphology, characterized by a helical capsid. The genetic material of rhabdoviruses consists of a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA genome, often linear. Notable members of this family include the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and the rabies virus.
The helical capsid structure observed in Rhabdoviridae is a result of the RNA genome winding around a helical axis, forming a rod-like structure. This is in contrast to icosahedral capsids found in some other virus families.Option (d) Rhabdoviridae is the correct choice based on the description of the virus's structural characteristics. This family includes viruses that infect a wide range of hosts, including animals and plants, and they are often associated with diseases in these organisms.Understanding the structural features of viruses aids in their classification, and in this case, the presence of a linear RNA genome and a helical capsid aligns with the characteristics commonly associated with the Rhabdoviridae family.