Essentials of Biology (5th International Edition)
Essentials of Biology (5th International Edition)
5th Edition
ISBN: 9781259660269
Author: Sylvia S. Mader, Dr., Michael Windelspecht
Publisher: Mcgraw-Hill
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Chapter 17, Problem 1BYB
Summary Introduction

To explain:

Whether viruses should be considered living or not.

Introduction:

Viruses are the acellular entities that are considered as small infectious agents. Viruses are known to infect all the life forms present on earth, from microbes to plants and animals. Viruses were discovered by Dmitri Ivanosky. Viruses are composed of genetic material enclosed within a protein coat known as capsid.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Viruses are considered as a link between the living and non-living. They stay in inactive crystalline form outside the host, but as soon as they enter the host they start replicating and perform functions like living beings. Viruses do not have a cellular structure. They use the machinery of the host for their own metabolic processes. So, viruses are not considered as a living being.

Conclusion

Viruses are not considered as living beings because they do not have a cellular structure and they cannot synthesize energy. They are unable to perform metabolisms, but they can use the machinery of the host to perform basic life sustaining functions. Thus, viruses are considered as a link between the living and non-living.

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What Is A Virus ? ; Author: Peekaboo Kidz;https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS7vsBgWszI;License: Standard YouTube License, CC-BY