BACTERIA & VIRUSES FLASHCARD

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What is a viral infection?

Back

A viral infection is an illness caused by a virus, which is a small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism. Example: Influenza (Flu).

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What distinguishes bacterial cells from eukaryotic cells?

Back

Bacterial cells are prokaryotes, meaning they do not have a nucleus, and their genetic material is not contained within a membrane-bound nucleus.

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What is a capsid?

Back

A capsid is the protein coat that surrounds and protects the genetic material of a virus.

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What is a host in the context of viruses?

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A host is an organism or a cell that a virus needs to reproduce in.

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What is the role of vaccines?

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Vaccines are used to prevent viral infections by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight off specific viruses.

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What are prokaryotes?

Back

Prokaryotes are single-celled organisms that lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Bacteria are examples of prokaryotes.

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What are eukaryotes?

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Eukaryotes are organisms whose cells contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes. Examples include plants, animals, and fungi.

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How do antibiotics work?

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Antibiotics are medications that fight bacterial infections by killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. They are not effective against viral infections.

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What is the difference between a virus and a bacterium?

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Viruses are non-living entities that require a host to replicate, while bacteria are living organisms that can reproduce independently.

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What is the function of the viral envelope?

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The viral envelope is a lipid membrane that surrounds some viruses, helping them to enter host cells and evade the immune system.