What discovery led to the understanding that all life forms consist of cells?

The understanding that all life forms consist of cells is primarily attributed to the discovery that new cells are produced from the division of existing cells. This principle, known as cell theory, is fundamental in biology and highlights the process of cell division as a core aspect of growth, reproduction, and tissue repair in living organisms.

This concept establishes that all cells arise from pre-existing cells, thereby implying a common lineage and structure for all life forms. It suggests that the characteristics and functions of different life forms are rooted in their cellular composition, which connects all living things. This assertion reinforces the idea that the cell is the basic unit of life, a foundational concept in biology that links all organisms, regardless of their complexity.

Other options, while related to cellular biology, do not directly support the idea that all life forms are made of cells. For instance, the idea that cells are components of tissues relates to multicellular organisms but does not encompass unicellular ones. The carbon composition is more about the molecular basis of life rather than cellularity. Lastly, while cells can function independently in some cases, this does not imply that all life is cellular; it merely highlights a capability of certain cells. Thus, the idea of cell division directly affirms the cellular basis of