Cell Theory and Discovery Quiz

Study Notes

Cell Definition: The basic structural and functional unit of life, derived from the Latin word "cella" meaning "small room."
Biotic vs. Abiotic: Biotic refers to living entities, while abiotic encompasses non-living factors such as sunlight and air.
Cytology: Branch of science focused on the study of cells.

Robert Hooke:
- English scientist who discovered cells in 1665 by observing cork under a crude microscope.
- Coined the term "cellula" due to the room-like structures he observed.
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek:
- Dutch naturalist known as the Father of Microscopy.
- Discovered "animalcules" (bacteria) in pond water, significantly contributing to microbiology.
Robert Brown:
- Scottish botanist who described the nucleus in detail in 1831.
- Extended cell theory to animals by identifying the nucleus as a key cell component.
Rudolf Virchow:
- German physician who articulated the idea that "Omnis cellula e cellula," meaning all cells come from pre-existing cells.
- Known as the father of modern pathology.

Red Blood Cells:
- Oval biconcave discs that lack a nucleus; most abundant cells in the body.
- Contain hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen.
Nerve Cells:
- Fundamental units of the nervous system with a star-like shape.
- Feature dendrites (short projections) and axons (long single branches) for transmitting information.

Cell Membrane Composition: Essential for maintaining the integrity of the cell.
Metabolic Activities: All cells perform various metabolic activities vital for sustaining life.

Classic Cell Theory: Asserts that cells are the building blocks of all living organisms, arising from pre-existing cells.
Protoplasm: Term introduced by Felix Dujardin, referring to the living part of the cell.