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Multiple Choice
The nucleocapsid is composed of which of the following components?
A
nucleic acid and capsid
B
nucleic acid and lipid envelope
C
protein coat and carbohydrate shell
D
lipid envelope and capsid
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'nucleocapsid': it refers to the complex formed by the viral nucleic acid and the protein coat that surrounds it.
Recall that the nucleic acid can be either DNA or RNA, which carries the genetic information of the virus.
Recognize that the capsid is the protein coat made up of capsomeres, which protects the nucleic acid and aids in its delivery into host cells.
Differentiate the nucleocapsid from other viral components such as the lipid envelope, which is a separate outer layer derived from the host cell membrane and not part of the nucleocapsid itself.
Conclude that the nucleocapsid is composed specifically of the nucleic acid and the capsid (protein coat), excluding lipid envelopes or carbohydrate shells.