Virus: Structure and Function

Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that can only replicate inside the cells of a living host. They are not considered living organisms as they do not exhibit all the characteristics of life, such as metabolism and growth. Instead, they are classified as biological entities that straddle the line between living and non-living.

Viral Structure

Viruses are composed of a nucleic acid core, which can be either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also have an additional lipid membrane envelope derived from the host cell. The nucleic acid carries the genetic information necessary for viral replication, while the capsid provides protection to the genetic material.

Viral Replication

Viruses cannot replicate on their own and must infect a host cell to reproduce. The process of viral replication typically involves attachment, penetration, replication, assembly, and release. Upon entering the host cell, the virus hijacks the cellular machinery to produce new viral components, which are then assembled to form new virus particles. These particles are then released from the host cell, often causing cell damage or death.

Study Guide

Key Concepts

Structure of a virus, including nucleic acid, capsid, and lipid envelope.
Process of viral replication, including attachment, penetration, replication, assembly, and release.
Host cell specificity and tropism.

Important Terminology

Capsid: The protein coat surrounding the nucleic acid core of a virus.
Enveloped virus: A virus with an additional lipid membrane envelope derived from the host cell.
Host cell: The cell in which a virus replicates.
Tropism: The specificity of a virus for a particular type of host cell.

Study Tips

When studying viruses, it is important to understand the specific mechanisms by which they infect and replicate within host cells. Using visual aids such as diagrams and animations can help in understanding the complex processes involved in viral replication. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the terminology associated with virology to better comprehend the structure and function of viruses.

Understanding viruses is crucial in the fields of medicine, epidemiology, and biotechnology. It is important to stay updated on the latest research and discoveries in virology to grasp the constantly evolving nature of viruses and their impact on human health.

Remember to seek clarification on any concepts or terminology that may be challenging, and actively engage in discussions and practical applications of virology to solidify your understanding of this fascinating subject.

Quiz Questions

What are the key components of a virus and their functions?
Describe the process of viral replication within a host cell.
Why are viruses considered non-living entities?

◂Chemistry Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Elements and the periodic table

Worksheet/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

Worksheet/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

Worksheet/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

Vocabulary/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

Vocabulary/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

Vocabulary/Answer key

Elements and the periodic table

The resources above cover the following skills:

Skills And Processes: The student will demonstrate ways of thinking and acting inherent in the practice of science. The student will use the language and instruments of science to collect, organize, interpret, calculate, and communicate information.

The student will explain why curiosity, honesty, openness, and skepticism are highly regarded in science.

The student will modify or affirm scientific ideas according to accumulated evidence.

The student will pose scientific questions and suggest investigative approaches to provide answers to questions.

The student will test a working hypothesis. (NTB)

The student will use relationships discovered in the lab to explain phenomena observed outside the laboratory.

The student will demonstrate that data analysis is a vital aspect of the process of scientific inquiry and communication.

The student will organize data appropriately using techniques such as tables, graphs, and webs (for graphs: axes labeled with appropriate quantities, appropriate units on axes, axes labeled with appropriate intervals, independent and dependent variables on correct axes, appropriate title).

The student will analyze data to make predictions, decisions, or draw conclusions.

The student will use analyzed data to confirm, modify, or reject a hypothesis.

The student will use appropriate methods for communicating in writing and orally the processes and results of scientific investigation.

The student will use, explain, and/or construct various classification systems.

The student will communicate conclusions derived through a synthesis of ideas.

Concepts Of Chemistry: The student will demonstrate the ability to use scientific skills and processes (Core Learning Goal 1) to explain composition and interactions of matter in the world in which we live.

The student will explain that atoms have structure and this structure serves as the basis for the properties of elements and the bonds that they form.

The student will analyze the structure of the atom and describe the characteristics of the particles found there.

The student will demonstrate that the arrangement and number of electrons and the properties of elements repeat in a periodic manner illustrated by their arrangement in the periodic table.