Which process typically occurs when animal viruses enter host cells?

• A. The virus remains inactive and does not interact with any cellular components.
• B. The viral genome is released and begins replication using host machinery.
• C. The virus immediately destroys the cell membrane and causes cell lysis.
• D. The virus exits the cell without releasing its genetic material.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that animal viruses must enter host cells to replicate because they rely on the host's cellular machinery.
2. Recognize that once inside the host cell, the virus typically releases its genetic material (genome) into the cytoplasm or nucleus.
3. Know that the released viral genome then uses the host cell's machinery to begin replication and transcription processes.
4. Note that the virus does not usually destroy the cell membrane immediately upon entry; instead, it often remains inside to replicate.
5. Conclude that the key process after entry is the release of the viral genome and initiation of replication using host cell components.