Which of the following are characteristics of a cell but not a virus? Select all that apply.

Question

Obtains and uses energy
Reproduces only within a host cell
Select all correct options
Genetic code is DNA only
Reproduces either asexually or sexually
Genetic code is DNA or RNA

Answer 1

The characteristics of a cell but not a virus include:

1. Obtains and uses energy - Cells can carry out metabolic processes to obtain and use energy, while viruses do not have this capability.

2. Reproduces either asexually or sexually - Cells can reproduce independently through processes like mitosis (asexual) or meiosis (sexual), whereas viruses can only reproduce by hijacking a host cell.

3. Genetic code is DNA only - While many cells do have DNA, some have RNA genomes, so this is not a definitive distinguishing characteristic for all cells. However, most cellular organisms (eukaryotes and prokaryotes) are generally associated with DNA.

Thus, the key characteristics that best distinguish cells from viruses in this case are the ability to obtain and use energy and the ability to reproduce independently (either asexually or sexually).

So, the correct selections would be:

• Obtains and uses energy
• Reproduces either asexually or sexually