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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a core principle of cell theory?
A
Cells are the smallest unit of non-living matter.
B
Cells can arise spontaneously from non-living matter.
C
All cells have a nucleus containing DNA.
D
All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the historical context of cell theory, which was developed in the mid-19th century by scientists such as Matthias Schleiden, Theodor Schwann, and Rudolf Virchow.
Recognize the three core principles of cell theory: 1) All living organisms are composed of one or more cells, 2) The cell is the basic unit of life, and 3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Evaluate each statement given in the problem against these core principles. The statement 'Cells are the smallest unit of non-living matter' contradicts the principle that cells are the basic unit of life, not non-living matter.
Consider the statement 'Cells can arise spontaneously from non-living matter.' This contradicts the principle that all cells arise from pre-existing cells, which was supported by Virchow's work.
Assess the statement 'All cells have a nucleus containing DNA.' This is not a core principle of cell theory, as prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus, yet they are still considered cells. The correct principle is 'All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.'