Cell Theory - The Three Fundamental Principles
Part of Cell Structure — GCSE Biology
This key facts covers Cell Theory - The Three Fundamental Principles within Cell Structure for GCSE Biology. Cell theory, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, animal and plant cell organelles, bacterial cells, specialized cells, and microscopy It is section 9 of 17 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 9 of 17
Practice
20 questions
Recall
25 flashcards
📋 Cell Theory - The Three Fundamental Principles
- All living organisms are made of one or more cells - Whether it's a single-celled bacterium or a complex human with trillions of cells
- The cell is the basic unit of life - Cells are the smallest structures that can carry out all life processes
- All cells arise from pre-existing cells - New cells are only formed when existing cells divide
Quick Check: Explain why a root hair cell has a large surface area but no chloroplasts, while a palisade mesophyll cell has many chloroplasts.
Root hair cells absorb water and minerals from soil — a large surface area increases the rate of absorption. They have no chloroplasts because roots are underground with no light for photosynthesis. Palisade cells are near the top of the leaf where light is absorbed, so they need many chloroplasts for photosynthesis.