Question

identify the response below that correctly identifies the basic structure of a virus. (1 point)

a membrane - bound particle
containing protein and nucleic
acid

a typical cellular structure with
a membrane, cytoplasm, and
nucleus

a protein coat called a capsid
surrounding nucleic acid
genetic material

a nucleic acid shell covering the
genetic material that is made of
protein

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• The first option is incorrect because viruses are not membrane - bound in the way described (they lack a cellular membrane of their own in the typical sense, and the description is inaccurate for virus structure).
• The second option is wrong as viruses are acellular and do not have a typical cellular structure with a membrane, cytoplasm, and nucleus.
• The third option is correct. Viruses have a protein coat called a capsid that surrounds their nucleic acid (genetic material).
• The fourth option is incorrect. The capsid (protein coat) surrounds the nucleic acid (genetic material), not the other way around as described here.

Answer:

a protein coat called a capsid surrounding nucleic acid genetic material