Final answer:
The cell theory is a key concept in biology, stipulating that all living organisms are made of cells, cells are the basic units of life, and all cells arise from existing cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Outline of the Cell Theory
The cell theory is a fundamental scientific concept in biology which outlines three core ideas:
All living organisms are composed of cells.
Cells are the basic units of life and are vital for all life's functions.
All cells come from pre-existing cells through the process of cell division.
Cells are the basic building blocks of life and their study is essential in understanding living organisms. Despite the fundamental similarities, such as having a plasma membrane, cytoplasm, ribosomes, and DNA, cells exhibit incredible diversity in size, shape, and function. This diversity is reflected in the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, as well as the specialized functions of various organelles within eukaryotic cells.