Life Science Chapter 4: Viruses and Bacterial Infections

A comprehensive collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Life Science Chapter 4, including viral structure, specific viral diseases, bacterial infection steps, and transmission methods.

Influenza

A contagious viral infection that causes muscle aches, inflammation of the respiratory system, fever, and chills.

Virus

A tiny particle containing nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) encased in protein; it is not made of cells and cannot reproduce outside of a host cell.

Bacteriophage

A virus that infects bacteria.

HIV

The virus that causes AIDS, which is spread by direct contact with certain body fluids.

Retrovirus

A virus that uses RNA as its genomic material.

Penetration/entry

The penetration of a virus or its nucleic acid into a host cell.

Electron microscope

An instrument invented in 1931 that uses a beam of electrons to produce magnified images.

Rabies

A potentially fatal viral disease transmitted by the bite of an infected animal.

AIDS effects

Symptoms and impacts on the body that include muscle aches, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Adhesion

The first step of bacterial infection where the bacteria attaches.

Invasion

The second step of bacterial infection where the bacteria infects.

Colonization

The third step of bacterial infection where the bacteria reproduces.

Viral infection duration

A process that causes millions of deaths each year and continues until the host cell disrupts.

Five ways viruses spread

Transmission through your mouth, your hands, your shoes, the air, and your spit.