Cell Theory L.14.1

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What is cell theory?

Back

Cell theory is a scientific theory that states that all living things are composed of cells, that cells are the basic unit of life, and that all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

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Why can cell theory not become a law?

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Scientific theories are well-tested explanations, while laws are well-tested descriptions of natural phenomena; one cannot become the other.

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How did technological advancements influence cell theory?

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Improvements in technology, such as the development of the light microscope, are closely related to changes in the cell theory.

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What did Louis Pasteur's experiment demonstrate?

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Pasteur's experiment demonstrated that spontaneous generation, the idea that living things can arise from nonliving matter, does not occur.

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What was the significance of the light microscope in cell theory?

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The light microscope, developed in the 17th century, allowed scientists to observe cells for the first time, leading to the development of modern cell theory.

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What is the difference between a scientific law and a scientific theory?

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A scientific law describes what happens in nature, while a scientific theory explains why it happens.

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What is spontaneous generation?

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Spontaneous generation is the discredited theory that living organisms can arise from nonliving matter.

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What is the role of a controlled experiment in scientific research?

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A controlled experiment isolates the effects of a single variable to determine its impact on the outcome.

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What is the basic unit of life?

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The cell is the basic unit of life, as all living organisms are made up of cells.

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What are the three main components of cell theory?

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1. All living things are composed of cells. 2. Cells are the basic unit of life. 3. All cells arise from pre-existing cells.