Decapping

Decapping is like taking the lid off a jar of pickles. It's when scientists remove the protective cover of a virus or a bacteria to study what's inside. Just like how you can't see what's inside the pickle jar until you take off the lid, scientists can't see what's inside a virus until they remove the cap or cover.

Decapping is important for scientists because they can study the genetic material and proteins inside the virus, which can help them understand how it works and how to stop it from causing illness. It's like taking apart a toy to see how it works or finding the hidden surprise inside your favorite candy.

The process of decapping involves using special chemicals or enzymes that can break down the virus's protective shell. It's kind of like using a special key or tool to open the jar of pickles. Once the virus is decapped, scientists can then study it under a microscope or in a laboratory to learn more about it.

So, in summary, decapping is like taking off the lid of a jar to see what's inside, and scientists do it to study viruses and bacteria in order to learn how they work and how to fight them.