Read the text on viruses and bacteria. 1 List the similarities between viruses and bacter 2 List the differences between viruses and bacte

**Similarities Between Viruses and Bacteria:** - Both are microscopic and can cause diseases. - Found in various environments and can be transmitted through similar routes. - Exhibit host specificity and contain genetic material. **Differences Between Viruses and Bacteria:** - **Nature:** Viruses are non-living particles that need a host to reproduce, while bacteria are living, single-celled organisms. - **Size:** Viruses are smaller than bacteria. - **Structure:** Viruses have a protein coat and sometimes a lipid envelope, whereas bacteria have a cell wall and other organelles. - **Reproduction:** Viruses cannot reproduce independently, while bacteria reproduce through cell division. - **Metabolism:** Viruses lack metabolic processes, whereas bacteria have their own metabolism. - **Genetic Material:** Viruses contain either DNA or RNA, not both, while bacteria contain both DNA and RNA. - **Treatment:** Viruses are treated with antiviral medications or vaccines, while bacteria are treated with antibiotics. - **Staining:** Viruses are difficult to stain and require electron microscopy, whereas bacteria can be stained with methods like Gram staining. - **Motility:** Viruses are non-motile, while some bacteria can move using flagella. - **Examples of Diseases:** Viruses cause diseases like HIV/AIDS and influenza, while bacteria cause diseases like tuberculosis and strep throat. **Additional Points:** - Bacteria can exchange genetic material, contributing to antibiotic resistance, whereas viruses mutate rapidly. - Bacteria play roles in ecosystems and biotechnology, while viruses are used in gene therapy and vaccine development. Understanding these similarities and differences helps in diagnosing infections and developing effective treatments.