Multiple choice A virus consists of a protein coat and nucleic acid molecules cell membrane and chromosome protein coat, genes, and mitochondria lipid coat (the capsid), genes, and ribosomes Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself A Correct answer Explanation A virus consists of a single- or double-stranded nucleic acid and at least one protein surrounded by a protein shell, called a capsid; some viruses also have an outer envelope composed of fatty materials (lipids) and proteins.