Multiple Choice
Which of the following, if any, may be a component of a virus?
17. Viruses
Viruses
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When a virus infects an E. coli cell, what part of the virus enters the bacterial cytoplasm?
A
The entire virus
B
The protein capsid and enclosed nucleic acid
C
The tail fibers
D
The protein capsid only
E
Only the nucleic acid
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of a virus: A virus typically consists of a protein coat called a capsid, which encloses its genetic material, either DNA or RNA.
Recognize the mechanism of viral infection: When a virus infects a host cell, it often injects its genetic material into the host, leaving the protein capsid outside.
Identify the role of the nucleic acid: The nucleic acid is the part of the virus that contains the genetic instructions necessary for replication within the host cell.
Consider the interaction with E. coli: In the case of bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria like E. coli), the nucleic acid is injected into the bacterial cytoplasm, while the capsid remains outside.
Conclude that only the nucleic acid enters the bacterial cytoplasm, allowing the virus to hijack the host's cellular machinery for replication.
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