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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?
Answer
To determine the correct row, let's analyze each feature against the characteristics of prions and protozoans:
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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.
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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.