Cell theory is a fundamental principle in biology that describes the properties and functions of cells, which are the basic units of life. It is composed of three main tenets:
-
All living organisms are made up of one or more cells: This states that cells are the building blocks of all living organisms, whether they are unicellular (like bacteria) or multicellular (like plants and animals).
-
The cell is the basic unit of life: This means that cells are the smallest units that can carry out all life processes. Every function necessary for life occurs within cells.
-
All cells arise from pre-existing cells: This emphasizes that cells do not spontaneously generate; instead, new cells are produced by the division of existing cells. This concept was established in the 19th century and is fundamental to understanding biological growth and reproduction.
Cell theory was formulated in the mid-19th century by scientists such as Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann, and Rudolf Virchow, and it laid the groundwork for modern biology and the study of living organisms.
1 answer