Question

The type of nucleic acid found in a virus:

• A. DNA only
• B. RNA only
• C. DNA or RNA
• D. DNA and RNA

Hint:

Viruses are classified based on their genetic material, either DNA or RNA, and this determines their replication strategies.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Viruses can contain either DNA or RNA as their genetic material, but not both. The type of nucleic acid varies depending on the virus. Some viruses, such as bacteriophages, contain DNA, while others, like the influenza virus, contain RNA. Here's why the other options are incorrect:
- DNA only: While some viruses contain only DNA (e.g., adenoviruses), many viruses contain RNA instead.
- RNA only: Similarly, while some viruses are RNA-based (e.g., retroviruses), there are also many DNA-based viruses.
- DNA and RNA: This is incorrect as no virus contains both DNA and RNA as its genetic material simultaneously. Thus, the correct answer is DNA or RNA, depending on the virus.