Which of the following statements about viruses is true?

Viruses are indeed classified by their genetic core, which can be either DNA or RNA. This classification encompasses different types of viruses, including those that have single-stranded or double-stranded genetic material. Understanding this classification is crucial for virology, as it helps scientists identify and categorize various viruses based on their genetic structure, replication processes, and modes of infection. This classification system also informs treatment and prevention strategies, enabling targeted approaches to combat viral infections.

In contrast, viruses lack ribosomes, which are necessary for protein synthesis, and they cannot replicate independently, as they require a host cell's machinery to reproduce. Additionally, viruses do not perform photosynthesis, as they do not have the cellular machinery or the structural components needed for this process. Thus, the uniqueness of their genetic core plays a pivotal role in understanding virus biology and pathology.