Question

why is a virus considered non-living?
a it has complex chemistry
b it is not made of cells
c it responds to its environment
d it can reproduce on its own
e it maintains a stable internal environment

Explanation:

To determine why a virus is non - living, we analyze each option:

• Option a: Complex chemistry is not a defining feature of non - living things. Many living organisms also have complex chemistry. So this is incorrect.
• Option b: The cell theory states that all living things are made of cells. Viruses lack a cellular structure. This is a key reason they are considered non - living.
• Option c: Responding to the environment is a characteristic of living organisms. Viruses do not truly respond to the environment in the way living things do, and this option is incorrect.
• Option d: Viruses cannot reproduce on their own. They need a host cell to replicate. So this option is wrong.
• Option e: Maintaining a stable internal environment (homeostasis) is a property of living things. Viruses do not have this ability, and this option is incorrect.

Answer:

b. It is not made of cells