Which of the following characteristics, structures, or processes is common to both bacteria and viruses?

A) independent existence

B) ribosomes

C) metabolism

D) cell division

E) genetic material composed of nucleic acid

E) genetic material composed of nucleic acid

Explanation:

It's not A because the virus can't live on its own, depends on a host to live and reproduce.

It's not B because viruses are only a fragment of DNA, or RNA cover in a protein capsule, they don't have ribosomes.

It's not C because again, viruses don't have a metabolism.

It's not D because viruses need a host to reproduce. Bacteria can make it on its own.

The correct one is E. Both genetic material in viruses, and bacteria are composed of nucleic acid.