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Question

The following phrases apply to viruses only, cells only, or both viruses and cells: 1. Genetic
information is in a capsid 2. Only reproduces within a host cell 3. Evolves over time 4. Can cause
diseases 5. Is alive 6. Genome consists of one or several RNA molecules Which of the following
options correctly pairs the phrases?
Viruses: 1, 6; Cells: 3; Both viruses and cells:
4,5
Viruses: 2, 6; Cells: 1; Both viruses and cells:
3,4,5
Viruses: 2, 6; Cells: 1, 5; Both viruses and cells:
3,4
Viruses: 1, 2, 6; Cells: 5; Both viruses and cells:
3,4

Answer 1

To correctly categorize the phrases according to viruses only, cells only, or both, let's analyze each phrase:

1. Genetic information is in a capsid: This applies to viruses only, as they have a protein coat called a capsid that encloses their genetic material.

2. Only reproduces within a host cell: This is true for viruses only, as they cannot reproduce independently and need a host cell to replicate.

3. Evolves over time: Both viruses and cells evolve over time through mutations and natural selection.

4. Can cause diseases: Both viruses and cells can cause diseases. For example, bacterial cells can cause infections, while viruses are known pathogens.

5. Is alive: Cells are considered living organisms, while viruses are generally not classified as living because they cannot carry out metabolic processes independently.

6. Genome consists of one or several RNA molecules: This applies to some viruses (specifically RNA viruses), but does not apply to cells generally, as cells contain DNA for their genetic material.

Given this analysis:

• Viruses: 1, 2, 6
• Cells: 5
• Both: 3, 4

Thus, the correct pairing option is: Viruses: 1, 2, 6; Cells: 5; Both viruses and cells: 3, 4.