BIOLOGY

Topic 2: Cell Theory

Cell Theory
The cell is the fundamental unit of life. List the three properties/processes which characterize
all cells on our planet:

Cell Theory & the Experimental Method

All cells must arise from other cells, a process known as ____________________. However, we
used to believe that cells could arise from non-living entities (i.e. “spontaneous generation”).

Complete the following table summarizing the experimental process used by Louis Pasteur to
disprove this idea:

Controlled variables

Manipulated variable

Responding variable

- SCIENCE 10H -
Exceptions to Cell Theory
Life is diverse! Not all cells follow the “rules”. Explain why each of the following examples are
considered to be exceptions to cell theory:

1) VIRUSES

2) STRIATED MUSCLE

3) FUNGAL HYPHAE

Origins of Cells
➢ Explain why conditions on our planet were not initially favourable for the formation of
life.
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- SCIENCE 10H -
Complete the following table outlining the four requirements that must have been met in
order for early “protocells” for form on Earth:

Requirement What it means Evidence

Catalysis

Self-Assembly

Compartmentalization

Self-Replication

“LUCA”
➢ What is “LUCA”? What evidence do we have that supports this idea?
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Establishing a Timeline
List two methods that are used to estimate the dates of the first living cells and last universal
common ancestor:

- SCIENCE 10H -
Linking Questions

1. Discuss some limitations of the Miller-Urey experiment. (2)

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2. Explain why the use of RNA as the first genetic material may have led to the evolution
of many diverse lifeforms. (2)
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- SCIENCE 10H -