Which of the following is true about viruses?

Viruses are unique entities that straddle the line between living and non-living. They are characterized by their structure, which includes genetic material, either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protein coat known as a capsid. This structure is essential for their ability to infect host cells.

The presence of genetic material is crucial for viruses, as it allows them to hijack a host's cellular machinery to replicate and produce new virus particles. Unlike living organisms, viruses cannot replicate independently; they require a host cell to facilitate their reproduction. Additionally, they are not classified as living organisms because they do not exhibit key characteristics of life, such as metabolism or independent growth. Thus, focusing on their structural properties, the statement about viruses containing DNA or RNA and a protein coat accurately describes their makeup and functional capabilities.