Chapter 1: Problem 4

The concept 'Omnis cellula e cellula' was put forward by

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: Rudolf Virchow, a German pathologist, proposed the concept 'Omnis cellula e cellula' in 1855. This concept states that all living cells arise from pre-existing cells by division, rejecting the idea of spontaneous generation. It contributed to the establishment of cell theory, the understanding of organism growth and development, genetic information transfer, and has been crucial for the development of modern medicine and the study of cellular processes, such as cell division, growth, regeneration, and the spread of diseases.

Step by step solution

Identify the Scientist

The concept 'Omnis cellula e cellula' was put forward by the German pathologist, Rudolf Virchow, in 1855.

Discuss the Historical Context

Before Virchow's time, it was widely believed that cells could arise spontaneously through a process called "spontaneous generation." However, by the mid-19th century, many scientists were beginning to challenge this idea. Virchow's concept played a pivotal role in refuting spontaneous generation and establishing the principle known as "cell theory."

Explain the Concept

'Omnis cellula e cellula' states that all living cells arise from pre-existing cells by division. According to the concept, a cell cannot originate from something non-cellular. This means that cells can only be produced by the division and reproduction of other cells.

Outline the Significance of the Concept

The concept 'Omnis cellula e cellula' was important for several reasons: 1. It contributed to the establishment of cell theory, which states that all living organisms are composed of one or more cells, and cells are the basic unit of structure and function in living organisms. 2. It led to the rejection of spontaneous generation and reinforced the idea that life can only come from life. 3. It provided a basis for understanding how organisms grow and develop, as well as how genetic information is passed from one generation to the next. 4. It has been crucial for the development of modern medicine and the study of cellular processes, such as cell division, growth, regeneration, and the spread of diseases.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

The concept 'Omnis cellula e cellula' was put forward by

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Identify the Scientist

Discuss the Historical Context

Explain the Concept

Outline the Significance of the Concept

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Chemistry of Life

Reproduction

Cellular Energetics

Genetic Information

Ecosystems

Responding to Change

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.