Problem 2 What structural features are com... [FREE SOLUTION]

Chapter 18: Problem 2

What structural features are common to all viruses? Which features are found only in certain types of viruses?

Short Answer

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All viruses have a genome (DNA or RNA) and a protein coat, known as a capsid. Some have an envelope derived from host cell membranes. Certain types of viruses vary in their type of genetic material (DNA or RNA), the structure of the capsid (icosahedral or rod-shaped), and the presence of an envelope and protein spikes on the envelope.

Step by step solution

Define Common Viral Structures

Begin by defining the structures that are common to all viruses. This includes the viral genome (either DNA or RNA), a protein coat called a capsid which protects the genome, and in some viruses, an envelope derived from host cell membranes. These components are fundamental to the structure of all viruses.

Identify Unique Features in Certain Viruses

Now consider features that are unique to certain types of viruses. While all viruses contain a genome, the type of genetic material can differ. It could be either DNA or RNA, and the DNA could be either double- or single-stranded. The structure of the capsid can also vary, with some viruses having an icosahedral shape while others are rod-shaped. Some viruses, but not all, contain an envelope outside of the capsid with spikes of proteins embedded.

Summarize Findings

Finally, summarize the findings: all viruses share a genome, a protein coat or capsid; certain types of viruses differ in the type of genetic material, the structure of the capsid, and the presence of an envelope and protein spikes on the envelope.

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91影视

What structural features are common to all viruses? Which features are found only in certain types of viruses?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Define Common Viral Structures

Identify Unique Features in Certain Viruses

Summarize Findings

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