HSC Biology — Module 1
Cell Theory — Flashcards & Quiz
Cell theory is one of the foundational concepts in HSC Biology Module 1. It states that all living things are made of cells, cells are the basic unit of life, and new cells arise from pre-existing cells. Understanding its limitations — including viruses, multinucleate cells, and the first cell — is equally important for exam success. These exceptions are frequently tested in multiple-choice and short-answer questions, so practise explaining why they challenge traditional cell theory.
Sample Flashcards
Q1: State the three principles of cell theory.
1) All living things are composed of cells. 2) Cells are the basic structural and functional unit of life. 3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
Q2: Name two exceptions or challenges to cell theory.
1) Viruses are not made of cells but can reproduce (inside host cells). 2) The first cell could not have arisen from a pre-existing cell. Other examples: multinucleate cells like skeletal muscle fibres, and mitochondria/chloroplasts having their own DNA (endosymbiosis).
Sample Quiz Questions
Q1: All living things are composed of one or more cells.
Answer: TRUE
This is the first principle of cell theory. All organisms, from bacteria to humans, are made of cells.
Q2: Viruses are considered living organisms under cell theory.
Answer: FALSE
Viruses are not made of cells and cannot reproduce independently. They are not considered living under cell theory, though they challenge its boundaries.
Related Concepts
Last updated: March 2026 · 2 flashcards · 2 quiz questions