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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT one of the three tenets of cell theory?
A
The cell is the basic unit of life.
B
All living organisms are composed of one or more cells.
C
All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
D
Cells can spontaneously generate from non-living matter.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the three tenets of cell theory: 1) The cell is the basic unit of life, 2) All living organisms are composed of one or more cells, 3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Review 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 that the concept of spontaneous generation, the idea that life can arise from non-living matter, was disproven by experiments conducted by scientists like Louis Pasteur.
Identify that the statement 'Cells can spontaneously generate from non-living matter' contradicts the third tenet of cell theory, which states that all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Conclude that the statement about spontaneous generation is not part of the cell theory and is the correct answer to the question.