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Multiple Choice
Which structure does a virus have in common with a prokaryotic cell?
A
Ribosomes
B
Cell membrane
C
Nucleic acid
D
Cytoplasm
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the basic structure of a virus: Viruses are composed of nucleic acids (either DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat called a capsid. Some viruses also have an outer lipid envelope.
Understand the basic structure of a prokaryotic cell: Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, have a cell membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and genetic material (nucleic acids) but lack a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
Identify the common structure: Both viruses and prokaryotic cells contain nucleic acids, which are essential for storing and transmitting genetic information.
Differentiate other structures: Prokaryotic cells have ribosomes, a cell membrane, and cytoplasm, which are not found in viruses. Viruses rely on host cells for these components.
Conclude that the shared structure between viruses and prokaryotic cells is nucleic acid, as it is the only component both possess for genetic information storage.