Question

question 9
viruses reproduce through the use of host cells. in this process, viruses reproduce by injecting their dna into the host cell and using the cells structures to create copies of itself.
after numerous copies are made, the host cell bursts and the new viruses are released. depending on the type of virus and the host cell, hundreds or thousands of viruses can be released in this burst. these viruses then go on to reproduce through new host cells.
bacteria, however, reproduce using binary fission. in this process, a bacterium splits into two identical daughter cells. in favorable conditions, bacteria can divide once every 20 minutes. this means that a single bacterium can turn into a colony of over a billion bacteria in about ten hours.
which statement correctly compares viral and bacterial reproduction?
a both viruses and bacteria must destroy themselves after they have reproduced.
b both viruses and bacteria can create large populations in a short time period.
c both viruses and bacteria can reproduce without the help of other organisms.
d both viruses and bacteria must have very large populations in order to reproduce.

Explanation:

• Option a: Viruses don't destroy themselves; they release new viruses. Bacteria divide into daughter cells, not destroy themselves.
• Option b: Viruses can release hundreds or thousands from one host cell. Bacteria can form a billion - cell colony in 10 hours. So both can create large populations quickly.
• Option c: Viruses need host cells (other organisms) to reproduce. Bacteria can reproduce independently (binary fission).
• Option d: Viruses can reproduce starting from a single virus in a host cell. Bacteria can start from a single bacterium.

Answer:

B. Both viruses and bacteria can create large populations in a short time period.