Ask your own question, for FREE!
Biology 21 Online
OpenStudy (anonymous):

How are viruses different from bacteria?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Viruses are different from bacteria in an enormous number of ways. Firstly, bacteria are cells and viruses are not. Viruses are composed of genetic information encapsulated in a protein coat. Secondly bacteria can usually hijack the genetic machinery of other organisms in order to create more copies of themselves. Bacteria perform respiration (or photosynthesis) and exhibit growth, whereas viruses are made of preformed be intracellular parasites when they are attacking a cell and inert matter when they are not (there is still much debate as to whether or not viruses are alive). From a purely physical standpoint viruses are much than colonies. They usually require an electron microscope to be seen with any detail, whereas most bacteria are readily visible under a light microscope. than bacteria. Bacteria are much larger than viruses. Also, bacteria are living and viruses are non-living. Bacteria are also not all pathogens, while viruses are.bacteria. the biggest difference between viruses and bacteria is that viruses must have a living host,like a plant or animal,while most bacteria can grow on bacteria but not viruses and bacterias have many shapes like curved ,spirals etc.

Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!
Can't find your answer? Make a FREE account and ask your own questions, OR help others and earn volunteer hours!

Join our real-time social learning platform and learn together with your friends!