Viruses: Part 1

1. A virus particle is basically a nucleic acid ( DNA or RNA ) enclosed in a protein shell or coat. Viruses are extremely small. They are about 15-25 nanometers in diameter.

2. The genetic material found in a virus can be double-stranded DNA/RNA or single-stranded DNA/RNA. Then type of genetic material found in a virus depends on the nature and function of the specific virus. The genetic material is covered by a protein coat. The viral genome can consist of a very small number of genes or it can have up to hundreds of genes depending of the type of virus.

3.

4. Animal Viruses:

Plant Viruses:

Tobacco mosaic virus, tomato spotted wilt virus, tomato yellow leaf curl virus, cucumber mosaic virus.

5. I think viruses are living because they are organisms and they reproduce. They are similar to bacteria. They are micro-organisms too. 

6. Yes, there are beneficial viruses. These viruses are beneficial because they can eat harmful bacteria that can otherwise do people damage. These viruses can also help our bodies fight off invading microbes.