Which scientist's work emphasized that cells are the basic unit of life?

The correct interpretation here focuses on Matthias Schleiden’s role in the development of the cell theory, which asserts that cells are the fundamental unit of life. Schleiden, a botanist, along with Theodor Schwann, a zoologist, contributed significantly to this concept in the mid-19th century. Schleiden proposed that all plant tissues are composed of cells, and Schwann extended this idea to animals, culminating in the formulation of the cell theory.

Rudolf Virchow’s contribution was also important, as he is known for stating that all cells come from pre-existing cells, which clarified the process of cell division. However, it was Schleiden and Schwann who initially emphasized that cells form the basic unit of all living organisms.

Thus, while Virchow’s work is relevant to cell biology, it is the combined efforts of Schleiden and Schwann that highlight the significance of the cell in all life forms. This foundational principle underlines the importance of cells as the building blocks of life, making Schleiden’s contributions critical to our understanding of biology.