That is true, the scientific field does not know at the moment where to classify viruses, as living or non-living, it is actually a very heated debate. The problem is, yes, they can reproduce, but they do so in a way that is very unique, and not truly reproduction. Instead of going through mitosis or sexual reproduction, they viruses DNA reproduces within the host cell, using the pieces of the host cell to create the rest of its body and such. Very interesting stuff, and a fun debate with your science teacher! Bring it up in class next time.
Slashdot Mirror
That is true, the scientific field does not know at the moment where to classify viruses, as living or non-living, it is actually a very heated debate. The problem is, yes, they can reproduce, but they do so in a way that is very unique, and not truly reproduction. Instead of going through mitosis or sexual reproduction, they viruses DNA reproduces within the host cell, using the pieces of the host cell to create the rest of its body and such. Very interesting stuff, and a fun debate with your science teacher! Bring it up in class next time.