NEETBotanyCell - The Unit of Life
In 1855, Rudolf Virchow made a significant contribution to the field of cell biology. Which of the following statements correctly describes his specific modification to the cell theory?
Options
- AHe explained that cells divide and new cells are formed from pre-existing cells.
- BHe concluded that the presence of a cell wall is a unique character of the plant cells.
- CHe proposed the hypothesis that the bodies of animals and plants are composed of cells and products of cells.
- DHe was the first to see and describe a live cell under the microscope.
Correct answer
A. He explained that cells divide and new cells are formed from pre-existing cells.
Step-by-step solution
According to the NCERT, Rudolf Virchow (1855) first explained that cells divide and new cells are formed from pre-existing cells (Omnis cellula-e cellula). By doing so, he modified the hypothesis of Schleiden and Schwann to give the cell theory a final shape. The presence of a cell wall as a unique character of plant cells was concluded by Theodore Schwann. The hypothesis that animal and plant bodies are composed of cells and their products was also proposed by Schwann. Anton von Leeuwenhoek was the first to see an