Question Detail
Question
Which of the following lack cellular components necessary for metabolism or independent reproduction?
Correct Answer
Option C is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Viruses are acellular, meaning they do not consist of cells and lack the necessary cellular machinery (like ribosomes) to carry out their own metabolism or reproduce independently. They are obligate intracellular parasites, requiring a host cell to replicate.
Hint
Think about which of these entities is not considered a living cell and requires a host to perform life functions.