The table shows four features that can be used to distinguish between types of pathogens - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 15
The table shows four features that can be used to distinguish between types of pathogens.
Which row of the table is correct?
| Feature | Prion | Proto... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The table shows four features that can be used to distinguish between types of pathogens - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which row of the table is correct?
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Answer
To determine the correct row, let's analyze each feature against the characteristics of prions and protozoans:
Contains DNA:
Prions do not contain DNA; they are misfolded proteins.
Protozoans do contain DNA as they are single-celled organisms.
Therefore, row (A) is incorrect.
Cellular:
Prions are acellular; they do not consist of cells.
Protozoans are cellular organisms.
Therefore, row (B) is incorrect.
Can reproduce:
Prions cannot reproduce by themselves; they induce misfolding in existing proteins.
Protozoans can reproduce, primarily through asexual reproduction.
Therefore, row (C) is incorrect.
Composed of protein:
Prions are entirely composed of protein.
Protozoans, however, are composed of various biomolecules including carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids.
Therefore, row (D) is incorrect for protozoans but correct for prions.
Given these analyses, the correct option that fits the provided characteristics is (B): Cellular. Protozoans are cellular while prions are not.