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Multiple Choice
Which of the following components are typically found in a virus when it is outside its host cell?
A
Ribosomes and mitochondria
B
Cell membrane and cytoplasm
C
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus
D
Capsid and nucleic acid
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that viruses are not considered living organisms when outside a host cell, as they lack the cellular machinery necessary for metabolism and reproduction.
Recognize that viruses are composed of a protein coat called a capsid, which encases their genetic material. This genetic material can be either DNA or RNA, but not both.
Note that viruses do not contain cellular organelles such as ribosomes, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, or Golgi apparatus, which are found in living cells.
Identify that viruses do not have a cell membrane or cytoplasm, as these are characteristics of living cells, not viruses.
Conclude that the typical components of a virus outside its host cell are the capsid and nucleic acid, which are essential for the virus to attach to and enter a host cell to begin replication.