The Cell Theory Flashcards

Vocabulary terms and definitions covering the history, figures, and core principles of Cell Theory.

Cell theory

One of the most important principles in biology explaining that all living things are made up of cells and that cells are the basic units of life.

Robert Hooke

Scientist who in 1665 observed thin slices of cork under a microscope and named the tiny box-like structures "cells."

Antonie van Leeuwenhoek

Scientist who in the 1670s improved microscope technology and became the first person to observe living microorganisms like bacteria and protozoa.

Matthias Schleiden

Scientist who in 1838 concluded that all plants are composed of cells.

Theodor Schwann

Scientist who in 1839 stated that all animals are made up of cells.

Rudolf Virchow

Scientist who in 1855 proposed that all cells come from pre-existing cells, contradicting the belief in spontaneous generation.

Spontaneous generation

A belief regarding the origin of life that was contradicted by Rudolf Virchow's proposal that all cells arise from pre-existing cells.

First Principle of Cell Theory

All living organisms are made up of one or more cells.

Second Principle of Cell Theory

The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in living things.

Third Principle of Cell Theory

All cells arise from pre-existing cells.