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How is the T^4 phage different from the lambda phage? The T^4 phage contains double stranded DNA as its genetic material, the lambda phage contains RNA. The lambda phage contains double stranded DNA as its genetic material, the T^4 phage contains RNA. The lambda phage is capable of entering the lysogenic cycle, T^4 phage are strictly lytic. The T^4 phage is capable of entering the lysogenic cycle, lambda phage are strictly lytic. The T^4 phage infects bacterial cells, the lambda phage infects animal cells.
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Step 1:
: Identify the differences between T^4 phage and lambda phage

The two phages have differences in their genetic material, lifestyle, and host specificity.

Step 2:
: Genetic material

T^4 phage contains double-stranded DNA, while lambda phage contains double-stranded DNA as well. Contrary to the initial statement, neither phage contains RNA as their genetic material.

Step 3:
: Lifestyle

Lambda phage is capable of entering the lysogenic cycle, where it can integrate its genetic material into the host bacterium's chromosome and replicate along with the host cell without causing lysis. T^4 phage, on the other hand, are strictly lytic, meaning they only replicate inside the host cell and eventually cause the cell to lyse (burst) and release new phages.

Step 4:
: Host specificity

Both T^4 phage and lambda phage infect bacterial cells. They do not infect animal cells.

Final Answer

- The T^4 phage contains double-stranded DNA, while the lambda phage also contains double-stranded DNA. - The lambda phage can enter the lysogenic cycle, but the T^4 phage is strictly lytic. - Both T^4 phage and lambda phage infect bacterial cells, not animal cells.