The invention of the microscope led to the discovery of the cell by Robert Hooke. While looking at cork, Hooke observed the box-shaped structures, which he called “cells” because they reminded him of the cells (rooms) found in monasteries. This discovery led to the development of the cell theory. Credit for developing the cell theory is usually given to two scientists: Theodor Schwann and Matthias Schleiden. The cell theory was then proposed by Theodor Schwann in 1839. There are three parts to this theory.

Question

Examine each of the statements below. Which of these is part of the cell theory? Select ALL that apply.
Responses
A Energy flow occurs within cells.Energy flow occurs within cells.
B The cell is the basic unit of life.The cell is the basic unit of life.
C All living things are made of cells.All living things are made of cells.
D All cells arise only from pre-existing cells.All cells arise only from pre-existing cells.
E DNA is passed between cells during cell division.

Answer 1

The three parts of the cell theory are:

1. The cell is the basic unit of life.
2. All living things are made of cells.
3. All cells arise only from pre-existing cells.

Based on this information, the correct responses that are part of the cell theory are:

B. The cell is the basic unit of life.
C. All living things are made of cells.
D. All cells arise only from pre-existing cells.

Responses A and E are not part of the traditional cell theory.