Question

1. viral genetic material can consist of dna or rna. what is the primary role of this genetic material once inside the host cell? ★

a. it destroys the host cell nucleus
b. it provides energy for viral movement
c. it directs the host cell to produce viral proteins and genomes
d. it prevents the immune system from responding

Explanation:

Viruses lack their own cellular machinery, so once their genetic material (DNA or RNA) enters a host cell, it hijacks the host's cellular processes. Its core function is to use the host's ribosomes, enzymes, and resources to synthesize viral proteins and replicate viral genomes, which are needed to assemble new virus particles. Option A is incorrect because viral genetic material does not directly destroy the host nucleus; some viruses may disrupt it but that is not the primary role. Option B is wrong because genetic material does not provide energy (energy comes from host cell ATP). Option D is incorrect as this is not the primary role; some viral proteins may interfere with immunity, not the genetic material itself.

Answer:

C. It directs the host cell to produce viral proteins and genomes