Would You Expect the Number of Virions to Be the Same

question 47

Multiple Choice

Would you expect the number of virions to be the same if you measured them by the plaque assay or by counting using the electron microscope? Why?

• A) Yes-both methods measure the total number of virus particles in a solution.
• B) No-the plaque assay only measures viable virus particles, while the electron microscope cannot distinguish between defective and viable virus.
• C) No-you cannot count virus particles by using a plaque assay. You can only get a relative difference in quantity from one preparation of virus particles to another with this method.
• D) Yes-only fully functioning viruses will be released from a host cell, so the quantified number of virus particles in a plaque assay should be identical to the number of free virus particles counted by electron microscopy.

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Definitions:

Mental Shortcuts

Heuristic methods or simple strategies used by individuals to make decisions or judgments quickly without having to consider all possible variables, often resulting in cognitive biases.

Consolidating Memories

The process by which memories become stable in the brain; a phase where short-term memories are transformed into long-term memories.

Experiential System

A cognitive processing system that operates based on experiences, emotions, and intuitions rather than analytical reasoning.

Cognitive System

A cognitive system refers to the mental processes and structures involved in perception, thinking, reasoning, and understanding.