viruses

Concepts of Living Things

• The classifications of living things will be discussed. Understanding infections, viruses, and the immune system is essential, especially due to the increase in illnesses during this season.

Viruses

• Definition: Viruses are defined as genetic material (either DNA or RNA) wrapped in proteins.

  • Unlike living cells, they do not possess all characteristics of life, such as cellular organization or energy metabolism.

Characteristics of Living Things vs. Viruses

• Living things usually exhibit seven characteristics:

  1. Order and complexity.

  2. Made of cells.

  3. Respond to stimuli.

  4. Grow and develop.

  5. Reproduce (through cell division).

  6. Utilize energy and maintain homeostasis.

  7. Adapt over time.

  • Viruses only partially meet some of these criteria and do not qualify as living things:

  • Complexity: Less complex than prokaryotic