NEET BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The simplest virions consist of two basic components: nucleic acid (single-or double-stranded RNA or DNA) and a protein coat, the capsid, which functions as a shell to protect the viral genome from nucleases and which during infection attaches the virion to specific receptors exposed on the prospective host cell.

Detailed explanation-2: -Virus genomes All viruses have genetic material (a genome) made of nucleic acid. You, like all other cell-based life, use DNA as your genetic material. Viruses, on the other hand, may use either RNA or DNA, both of which are types of nucleic acid.

Detailed explanation-3: -Each virus possesses a protein capsid to protect its nucleic acid genome from the harsh environment. Virus capsids predominantly come in two shapes: helical and icosahedral.

Detailed explanation-4: -Viruses are composed of a nucleic acid, RNA or DNA-never both.-All viruses have a protein coat (capside) or shell that surrounds and protects the nucleic acid core.-Some viruses have a lipid envelope or membrane surrounding a nucleocapsid core. The source of the envelope is from the membranes of the host cell.