A scientist was studying how a specific virus infects skin cells. In a lab, the scientist exposed a group of skin cells to the virus. Over
time, the number of living skin cells in the group decreased.
Which statement explains why this change occurred?
A.
Viruses reproduce before they enter cells, and the new viruses infect these cells.
B.
Viruses eat living cells to provide energy for reproduction.
C.
Viruses reproduce inside of their host cells, eventually killing the cells.
D.
Viruses reproduce outside of cells, creating harmful chemicals that kill the cells.