Question

Compare a virus to a unicellular organism.(1 point) Responses Unicellular organisms have a cell membrane made from a lipid bilayer; viruses have a protein coat. Unicellular organisms have a cell membrane made from a lipid bilayer; viruses have a protein coat. Neither unicellular organisms nor viruses respond to stimuli. Neither unicellular organisms nor viruses respond to stimuli. Viruses reproduce through asexual reproduction; unicellular organisms need a host cell. Viruses reproduce through asexual reproduction; unicellular organisms need a host cell. Viruses need energy; unicellular organisms do not need energy.

Answer 1

The comparison between a virus and a unicellular organism highlights several key differences:

1. Cell Structure: Unicellular organisms have a cell membrane made from a lipid bilayer, while viruses have a protein coat (capsid) that encases their genetic material.

2. Response to Stimuli: Unicellular organisms can respond to stimuli in their environment (though the extent and complexity can vary), whereas viruses do not exhibit any form of response to stimuli.

3. Reproduction: Viruses do not reproduce on their own; they require a host cell to replicate, whereas unicellular organisms can reproduce asexually through processes such as binary fission, without needing a host.

4. Energy Requirement: Unicellular organisms require energy to carry out metabolic processes, while viruses do not have metabolic processes and do not need energy in the same way.

Considering these points, the statement that most accurately describes the differences is that "unicellular organisms have a cell membrane made from a lipid bilayer; viruses have a protein coat."