What is the difference between a virus and a retrovirus?

A virus is a non-living infectious agent, while a retrovirus is a type of virus that uses RNA to replicate.

Viruses are tiny infectious agents that can only replicate inside living cells. They consist of genetic material (either DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat. Some viruses also have an outer envelope made of lipids. Viruses are not considered living organisms because they cannot carry out metabolic processes on their own and require a host cell to reproduce.

Retroviruses are a type of virus that use RNA as their genetic material. They are unique because they have an enzyme called reverse transcriptase, which allows them to convert their RNA into DNA once they infect a host cell. This DNA is then integrated into the host cell's genome, where it can be transcribed and translated into viral proteins. Retroviruses are responsible for several diseases, including HIV/AIDS and certain types of cancer.

In summary, the main difference between a virus and a retrovirus is that retroviruses use RNA to replicate, but also have the ability to convert their RNA into DNA using reverse transcriptase. This allows them to integrate their genetic material into the host cell's genome, which can have long-term effects on the infected organism.