Practice problem
Cell Theory — Overview & Parts
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Use the diagram below to answer the question that follows.
Image Source: By Alzinous (based on copyright claims). [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Louis Pasteur conducted an experiment in 1859 in which he boiled two flasks of broth, using heat to kill any microorganisms. The flasks were designed with long, curved necks that prevented microorganisms in the air from getting into the broth.
He let Flask A cool down as it was. For Flask B, Pasteur removed the neck of the flask, exposing the broth to the air and any microorganisms in it.
After a few days, Flask A showed no change while the broth in Flask B was cloudy and full of new microorganisms.
Which component of cell theory is most directly supported by the results of Pasteur's experiment?