Why Aren't Viruses Considered Living Organisms

Question

Why aren't viruses considered living organisms?
A) because they do not replicate
B) because they do not possess genetic material
C) because they are not composed of cells
D) because they lack the metabolic machinery to acquire and use nutrients
E) None of these are correct.

Accepted Answer

Viruses possess DNA or RNA as the genetic material and replicate inside living cells. Viruses are not made of cells and cannot acquire or use nutrients independent of a cell and thus do not possess some of the fundamental characteristics of life.