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

2389 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how ciliary muscles and elastic fibres change the shape of lens to a distant object


What is a concentration gradient?


What is a reflex arc?


Outline the differences between arteries and veins? (6) marks- 3 for each


We're here to help

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

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning