In the past, some scientists accepted the theory of spontaneous generation. This theory states that organisms can arise from nonliving matter. Now scientists generally accept cell theory to explain the origin and growth of new organisms. Which of these statements is a key idea of cell theory that disproves the theory of spontaneous generation?
A. The cell is the basic unit of life.
B. All living things are made of matter.
C. All cells arise from pre-existing cells by division.
D. All cells are formed from the combination of two other cells.