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Multiple Choice
Which of the following are classified as acellular infectious agents?
A
Protozoa
B
Viruses
C
Bacteria
D
Fungi
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'acellular infectious agents': These are infectious agents that do not have a cellular structure. They are not made up of cells and do not have the characteristics of living organisms, such as metabolism or the ability to reproduce independently.
Identify the characteristics of viruses: Viruses are acellular because they lack a cellular structure. They consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat and require a host cell to replicate.
Differentiate between cellular and acellular organisms: Cellular organisms, such as bacteria, protozoa, and fungi, have a cellular structure and can carry out life processes independently. Acellular agents, like viruses, cannot do this.
Review the list of options: Protozoa, bacteria, and fungi are all cellular organisms, meaning they have a cellular structure and can perform life processes independently.
Conclude that viruses are the only acellular infectious agents in the list, as they do not have a cellular structure and require a host to replicate.