Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What characterizes the lysogenic cycle of a virus?

1. It causes immediate death to the host

2. It coexists with the host rather than killing it

3. It rapidly produces new viral particles

4. It relies on external factors for replication

The correct answer is: It coexists with the host rather than killing it

The lysogenic cycle of a virus is characterized by its ability to coexist with the host cell rather than causing immediate cell death. During this cycle, the viral DNA becomes incorporated into the host's genome, forming a prophage. This integration allows the virus to be replicated along with the host's DNA whenever the host cell divides, meaning that the virus can persist without actively reproducing new viral particles immediately. The host cell remains alive and can continue to function normally for a time, which is a stark contrast to the lytic cycle, where the virus quickly destroys the host cell to release new virions. The lysogenic cycle can remain dormant until certain conditions prompt the virus to enter the lytic cycle, leading to the production of new viral particles and eventual cell death. This unique mechanism of coexistence instead of immediate destruction is what distinctly defines the lysogenic cycle.