# Explain why viruses are not considered to be living cells, despite containing genetic material and being able to reproduce.

> IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — A2.1 Origins of cells · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Viruses lack a cell membrane / are not bounded by a membrane of their own
2. Viruses cannot carry out metabolism / do not perform metabolic reactions independently
3. Viruses can only reproduce inside a host cell / are obligate intracellular parasites
4. The cell theory states all living things are made of cells / viruses do not conform to cell theory

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Biology Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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