Which of the following is a unique characteristic of viruses that distinguishes them from the other major groups of microorganisms?
A) Viruses cause human disease.
B) Vruses are composed of cells that lack nuclei.
C) Viruses cannot be seen without an electron microscope.
D) Viruses contain genetic material.
E) Viruses lack cell structure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Viruses lack cell structure, which distinguishes them from bacteria, archaea, fungi, and protozoa. While viruses do contain genetic material, this is also true for all other major groups of microorganisms. Additionally, while viruses are typically too small to be seen without an electron microscope, this is not a unique characteristic as there are other microorganisms (such as certain bacteria) that are also too small to be seen with a light microscope.

Which of the Following Is a Unique Characteristic of Viruses