The table compares a eukaryotic cell and a virus. Which statement correctly compares a eukaryotic cell and a virus? Characteristic Eukaryotic Cell Virus organelles many none method of reproduction cell division only with a host responds to stimuli yes no nucleic acid DNA DNA or RNA a A eukaryotic cell maintains homeostasis, whereas a virus does not possess the required organelles. b A eukaryotic cell contains genetic material, whereas a virus does not contain genetic material. c A eukaryotic cell responds to changes in the environment, whereas a virus cannot adapt. d A eukaryotic cell can reproduce to make more cells, whereas a virus cannot reproduce.

Answer 1

The correct statement that compares a eukaryotic cell and a virus is:

a: A eukaryotic cell maintains homeostasis, whereas a virus does not possess the required organelles.

Let's evaluate the other statements to clarify:

• b: This statement is incorrect because both eukaryotic cells and viruses contain genetic material (eukaryotic cells contain DNA, whereas viruses can contain either DNA or RNA).

• c: This statement is misleading; while eukaryotic cells can respond to changes in their environment, viruses do not respond in the same way as living organisms. They do not exhibit behavior such as adaptation or response to stimuli.

• d: This statement is also incorrect because viruses can reproduce, but only within a host cell. They do not reproduce independently like eukaryotic cells do.

Therefore, the most accurate and correct comparison is statement a.