The diagram shows the structure of a virus such as COVID-19 - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 5 - 2021
Question 5
The diagram shows the structure of a virus such as COVID-19.
(a) Why are viruses not considered to be living organisms?
(b) Identify the two parts labelled A and B... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows the structure of a virus such as COVID-19 - Leaving Cert Biology - Question 5 - 2021
Step 1
Why are viruses not considered to be living organisms?
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Viruses are not considered to be living organisms because they do not possess the characteristics of life. Specifically, they cannot carry out metabolic processes independently and require a host cell to reproduce and carry out functions.
Step 2
Identify the two parts labelled A and B that are found in all viruses.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
A. Protein or capsid
B. DNA or RNA or nucleic acid
Step 3
Describe one way viruses may be spread from person to person.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Viruses can be spread through coughing or sneezing, which disperses droplets containing the virus into the air. These droplets can then be inhaled by other individuals or land on contaminated surfaces.
Step 4
State one way the body can defend itself against viruses.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The body can defend against viruses through the immune system, which may produce antibodies or activate white blood cells to target and eliminate the virus.
Step 5
Give one way in which viruses are beneficial.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Viruses can be used in vaccine production or cancer research, as bacteriophages can target and kill bacteria, aiding in genetic engineering or population control.
Step 6
Explain why viruses are described as obligate parasites.
97%
121 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Viruses are described as obligate parasites because they can only replicate inside living host cells. They lack the cellular machinery required for independent reproduction and rely entirely on the host's cellular mechanisms.
Join the Leaving Cert students using SimpleStudy...
