SC.912.L.14.1: Describe the scientific theory of cells (cell theory) and relate the history of its discovery to the process of science.
Cells are the smallest unit of life that are capable of reproducing and functioning independently. We now know that all life is made up of cells, but this was not always the case. Every life form that we know of consists of cells, this includes sea sponges, all insects, and even human beings. This concept can be summed up by what we call “Cell Theory”.
3 Basic Components of Cell Theory
- All living things are made up of cells
- The cell is the most basic unit of life
- All cells come from pre-existing/living cells
Contributions leading to Cell Theory
- Zacharias Janssen invented the microscope
- Cells were first observed by Robin Hooke in 1665
- Leeuwenhoek observed cells moving
- Theodor Schwann determined all living things are made of cells
- Many more scientists…
Why it matters?
Due to the discovery of cells are understanding of medicine has increased exponentially! The invention of the microscope and discovery of cells paved the way for the Germ theory of disease. The idea that microscopic organisms are capable and responsible for causing many of the world’s diseases, this has allowed us to increase the quality of life and decrease disease globally.