Viruses possess all the following properties, except

Options

A. They are non-cellular organisms
B. Possess both DNA and RNA
C. Capsid protects nucleic acid
D. Have inert crystalline structure outside living cells

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Viruses**: Viruses are unique entities that exhibit both living and non-living characteristics. They are classified as non-cellular organisms, meaning they do not have a cellular structure like other living organisms.

**Hint**: Remember that viruses are not considered living organisms outside of a host.

2. **Living vs Non-Living Behavior**: When viruses are outside a host cell, they are inert and do not exhibit any metabolic activity. However, once they enter a host cell, they can replicate and exhibit characteristics of living organisms.

**Hint**: Think about how viruses behave differently inside and outside of host cells.

3. **Genetic Material**: Viruses contain genetic material, which can be either DNA or RNA. They do not possess both simultaneously. This genetic material is crucial for their replication and function.

**Hint**: Focus on the types of genetic material viruses can have.

4. **Capsid**: The protective covering of a virus is called a capsid, which is made of protein. This structure safeguards the nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) within the virus.

**Hint**: Recall the role of the capsid in protecting the virus's genetic material.

5. **Inert Crystalline Structure**: Outside of a host cell, viruses can be described as having an inert crystalline structure. This means they do not show any signs of life until they infect a host.

**Hint**: Consider the physical state of viruses when they are not inside a host.

6. **Identifying the Incorrect Property**: The question asks for the property that does not apply to viruses. Among the options provided, the statement that viruses possess both DNA and RNA is incorrect. Viruses can only have one type of genetic material at a time.

**Hint**: Look for the option that suggests a characteristic that is not true for viruses.

### Final Answer:
Viruses possess all the following properties, except that they have both DNA and RNA as genetic material. They can only have one or the other.