The influenza A virus is a spherical virus

In summary, the influenza A virus is a spherical virus with a diameter of 85 nm. If 10^-9 of the volume of saliva coughed onto you by a friend with the flu consists of viral particles, then approximately 4.4e^-21 cubic nanometers of the virus have landed on you.
  • #1
lalahelp
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0
1. Homework Statement [/b]
A typical virus is a packet of protein and DNA (or RNA) and can be spherical in shape. The influenza A virus is a spherical virus that has a diameter of 85 nm. If the volume of saliva coughed onto you by your friend with the flu is 0.044 cm3 and 10−9 of that volume consists of viral particles, how many influenza viruses have just landed on you?

Homework Equations


4/3*Pi*r^3


The Attempt at a Solution


V=4/3(pi)(42.5^3)

Could some one show me how to convert the .044 cm3 to nm3
I know that .044 cm3 equals 4.4e^-8 m^3
so what do I then after?
 
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  • #2


According to Wikipedia, a "nanometer", 1 nm, is 1 billionth, or [itex]10^{-9}[/itex] m. A cubic nanometer, then, is [itex](10^{-9})^3= 10^{-27}[/itex] cubic meter.

A cubic cm is, of course, [itex](10^{-2})^3= 10^{-6}[/itex] cubic meter.
 
  • #3


So .044 cm3 is equal to 4.4e^-21?
 

1. What is the influenza A virus?

The influenza A virus is a spherical virus that causes the flu, a highly contagious respiratory illness. It is a member of the Orthomyxoviridae family of viruses and is known for its ability to mutate and adapt, making it difficult to develop effective vaccines.

2. How is the influenza A virus transmitted?

The influenza A virus is typically transmitted through respiratory droplets, which are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can then be inhaled by others or land on surfaces and objects, where they can be picked up by others.

3. What are the symptoms of an influenza A virus infection?

The symptoms of an influenza A virus infection can vary, but typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. Some people may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms usually appear within 1-4 days after exposure and can last for several days to a week.

4. How is the influenza A virus diagnosed?

The influenza A virus can be diagnosed through a variety of methods, including rapid flu tests, viral culture, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. These tests detect the presence of the virus in respiratory samples, such as throat or nasal swabs.

5. How can the spread of the influenza A virus be prevented?

The best way to prevent the spread of the influenza A virus is by getting an annual flu vaccine. Other preventive measures include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when you are sick.

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