Question

How are viroids different from viruses

OR

What is the difference between viroids and viruses?

Answer 1

Viroids are free RNA molecules of low molecular weight without any protein coat while viruses can have either RNA or DNA molecules encapsulated in a protein coat. Viroids are smaller in size than viruses. Viroids infect only plants whereas virus infects all types of organisms. In viroids, a protein coat is absent whereas in viruses a protein covering or a coat called a capsid is present around the genetic material.