Virus Review

Front

What is a virus?

Back

A virus is a microscopic infectious agent that requires a host cell to replicate and cannot reproduce on its own.

Front

What is the lytic cycle?

Back

The lytic cycle is a viral reproductive cycle that results in the destruction of the host cell and the release of new virus particles.

Front

What is the lysogenic cycle?

Back

The lysogenic cycle is a viral reproductive cycle where the virus integrates its genetic material into the host cell's DNA and can remain dormant for long periods.

Front

What are the main components of a virus?

Back

A typical virus consists of a protein coat (capsid) and a nucleic acid core (either DNA or RNA).

Front

How do viruses replicate?

Back

Viruses replicate by infecting a host cell, hijacking the cell's machinery to produce new virus particles.

Front

What happens to the host cell at the end of the lytic cycle?

Back

At the end of the lytic cycle, the host cell is destroyed (lysis) and releases new viruses.

Front

What is the difference between lytic and lysogenic cycles?

Back

The lytic cycle results in the immediate destruction of the host cell, while the lysogenic cycle allows the virus to remain dormant within the host cell.

Front

What is a host cell?

Back

A host cell is a living cell that a virus infects to replicate and produce new virus particles.

Front

What is a capsid?

Back

A capsid is the protein shell that encases the genetic material of a virus.

Front

What is viral DNA or RNA?

Back

Viral DNA or RNA is the genetic material of a virus that contains the information necessary for replication.