Pathogens are disease-causing organisms which can infect humans. Bacteria and viruses are two examples of pathogens. Explain the differences between bacteria and pathogens and give an example of each.

Bacteria:Contain naked DNAHave a cell wall, membrane and organelles - RibosomesAre cellsLarger than virusesCan survive without living hostCan be treated with antibioticsexample: Staphylococcus aureusViruses:Are much smaller than bacteriaEnter living host cellsDo not have a cell wall or organelles- protein coat, capsid, DNA or RNAUse host cell machinery to reproduceDestroy host cell to spread viral particlesCannot survive without a living hostDo not respond to antibioticsExample: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

TG
Answered by Tabitha G. Biology tutor

2375 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe the differences and similarities between osmosis and diffusion (4 marks)


What is the definition of diffusion


How can you stop a cell culture from becoming contaminated?


Describe and explain the three main factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences