Which of the following statements best supports the argument that viruses are nonliving?

• A. Viruses contain either DNA or RNA as their genetic material.
• B. Viruses are capable of rapid mutation and evolution.
• C. Viruses can infect both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
• D. Viruses cannot carry out metabolic processes independently.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the criteria that define living organisms, which typically include the ability to carry out metabolic processes, grow, reproduce independently, respond to stimuli, and maintain homeostasis.
2. Analyze each statement in the problem to see if it supports the idea that viruses are nonliving based on these criteria.
3. Note that the statement 'Viruses contain either DNA or RNA as their genetic material' shows that viruses have genetic material, a characteristic of life, but does not address metabolic independence.
4. Recognize that 'Viruses are capable of rapid mutation and evolution' indicates they can change over time, which is a feature of living organisms, so this does not support the argument that they are nonliving.
5. Focus on the statement 'Viruses cannot carry out metabolic processes independently' because metabolism is essential for life, and the inability to perform metabolism without a host cell strongly supports the argument that viruses are nonliving.