Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are small, non-enveloped (lacki…

Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are small, non-enveloped (lacking a membrane) viruses that contain a double-stranded DNA genome surrounded by a protein capsid (coat). Once inside a cell, HPV hijacks the cellular functions and effectively turns the cell into a virus producing factory, with the synthesis of viral genome and proteins allowing virus particles to assemble and exit the cell. Some types of HPV can lead to the development of cancers such as cervical cancer. This overall process is representative of what viruses in general accomplish when infecting cells. Based on this information and your understanding of the definition of life, are viruses alive? Please explain. Include the following in your answer: Define the characteristics of life as discussed in this course Identify which characteristics (if any) apply to viruses Identify which characteristics (if any) do not apply to viruses Explain your rationale for why viruses are or are not alive using HPV as an example Your answer should be a paragraph of at least 4-5 sentences. Note that there is not a single answer to this question, but the point is to demonstrate your understanding of viruses and the definition of life!