Which option correctly lists the three classical tenets of cell theory?

• A. All living things are composed of cells; mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell; all cells contain identical DNA.
• B. All living things are composed of one or more cells; the cell is the basic unit of structure and function in organisms; all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
• C. Cells are the basic unit of heredity; all enzymes are proteins; all cells arise from pre-existing cells.
• D. All cells contain a nucleus; all organisms are multicellular; all cells arise spontaneously from nonliving matter.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that the classical cell theory is a fundamental concept in cell biology that describes the properties and origins of cells.
2. Step 2: Recall the three classical tenets of cell theory, which are: (1) All living things are composed of one or more cells; (2) The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in organisms; (3) All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
3. Step 3: Evaluate each option by comparing it to these three tenets. Identify which option correctly states all three without adding incorrect or unrelated information.
4. Step 4: Recognize that the correct option must include the ideas of composition of living things by cells, the cell as the basic unit, and the origin of cells from pre-existing cells.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the option stating 'All living things are composed of one or more cells; the cell is the basic unit of structure and function in organisms; all cells arise from pre-existing cells' correctly lists the three classical tenets of cell theory.