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Multiple Choice
Which feature is common to both living cells and viruses?
A
They can reproduce independently without a host.
B
They contain genetic material such as DNA or RNA.
C
They possess ribosomes for protein synthesis.
D
They have a cellular membrane enclosing organelles.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the question: The problem is asking for a feature that is shared by both living cells and viruses. Carefully analyze each option provided to determine which one applies to both.
Evaluate the first option: 'They can reproduce independently without a host.' Living cells can reproduce independently, but viruses require a host cell to replicate. Therefore, this option is not common to both.
Evaluate the second option: 'They contain genetic material such as DNA or RNA.' Both living cells and viruses contain genetic material. Living cells have DNA (and sometimes RNA in certain cases like retroviruses), while viruses can have either DNA or RNA as their genetic material. This is a shared feature.
Evaluate the third option: 'They possess ribosomes for protein synthesis.' Living cells have ribosomes for protein synthesis, but viruses lack ribosomes and rely on the host cell's machinery for protein synthesis. This option is not common to both.
Evaluate the fourth option: 'They have a cellular membrane enclosing organelles.' Living cells have a cellular membrane and organelles, but viruses do not have a cellular membrane or organelles. This option is not common to both.