Which of the following are found in all viruses?
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a
DNA, RNA, ribosomes, cell wall
b
Nucleus, ribosomes, cell wall
c
DNA or RNA and a protein coat
d
Cell membrane and ribosomes
c
DNA or RNA and a protein coat
The correct answer is c: DNA or RNA and a protein coat. All viruses contain genetic material, which can be either DNA or RNA, and a protein coat, also known as a capsid.
The correct answer is option c: "DNA or RNA and a protein coat."
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the basic structure of a virus. A virus is a tiny infectious agent that can only survive and replicate inside the cells of a living organism. Unlike living cells, viruses lack many of the components found in cells, such as a nucleus, ribosomes, and cell wall.
All viruses contain genetic material, either in the form of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) or RNA (ribonucleic acid). This genetic material carries the instructions for viral replication and can be either double-stranded or single-stranded. Additionally, viruses have a protective outer layer called a protein coat, also known as a capsid. The protein coat helps to protect the genetic material of the virus and allows it to attach to and enter host cells.
Answer option a: "DNA, RNA, ribosomes, cell wall" is incorrect because viruses do not possess ribosomes or cell walls. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, which viruses cannot perform on their own. Similarly, cell walls are found in many prokaryotic cells but are not present in viruses.
Answer option b: "Nucleus, ribosomes, cell wall" is incorrect because viruses lack a nucleus and a cell wall. The nucleus is a distinct organelle found in eukaryotic cells and is absent in viruses. As mentioned earlier, ribosomes are also not found in viruses.
Answer option d: "Cell membrane and ribosomes" is incorrect because, as discussed above, viruses do not possess ribosomes or a cell membrane.
Therefore, the only correct option is c: "DNA or RNA and a protein coat."