Julian claims that viruses are alive. His supporting evidence is that viruses use the universal genetic code, are able to reproduce, and can evolve. Which statement would be most useful in an argument against Julian’s claim?

Question

A. Viruses are too small to be classified as living things.
B. Viruses evolve only after many generations.
C. Viruses satisfy only some characteristics of life, not all of them.
D. Viruses reproduce only under the proper conditions

Answer 1

C. Viruses satisfy only some characteristics of life, not all of them.

This statement effectively counters Julian's claim by emphasizing that while viruses may exhibit some characteristics associated with living organisms, they do not meet all the criteria that define life. Specifically, viruses cannot independently reproduce or carry out metabolic processes without a host, which are critical components of living systems.