Question

a science student argues that viruses are not alive. to provide the strongest support for this argument, which statement should the student cite? (1 point)

all tiny living things cause damage and suffering.

all living things are able to reproduce

all cells are made of tiny, nonliving parts.

all living things are made of cells.

Explanation:

To determine the best support for the argument that viruses are not alive, we analyze each option:

• The first option is incorrect as it focuses on damage (not a defining characteristic of life) and is a false generalization.
• The second option is incorrect because viruses can reproduce (using host cells), so this does not support the argument.
• The third option is irrelevant, as it discusses cell components, not the nature of viruses.
• The fourth option is correct: A key characteristic of living things is being made of cells. Viruses lack cells (they are acellular), so citing "All living things are made of cells" directly supports the claim that viruses are not alive.

Answer:

D. All living things are made of cells.