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?
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Answer
Viruses are not considered living organisms because they do not have cellular structures, cannot reproduce independently, and only contain one type of nucleic acid (either DNA or RNA). They also lack cellular organelles, which are necessary for life processes.
Step 2
Identify the two parts labelled A and B that are found in all viruses.
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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.
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Answer
Viruses can be spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. They can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
Step 4
State one way the body can defend itself against viruses.
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The body can defend itself against viruses through its skin barrier, mucus, or by the immune response which includes white blood cells that target infected cells.
Step 5
Give one way in which viruses are beneficial.
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Viruses can be beneficial in vaccine production or cancer research, as they can be engineered to target and destroy harmful bacteria or cancer cells.
Step 6
Explain why viruses are described as obligate parasites.
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Answer
Viruses are described as obligate parasites because they can only replicate inside the living cells of a host organism. They rely entirely on the host's cellular machinery for reproduction.
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