Question

Identify the correct statements regarding the origin of life.
(i) Swan-neck flask experiment was performed by Francesco Redi
(ii) Louis Pasteur disproved theory of spontaneous generation completely
(iii) Cosmozoic theory of origin of life was proposed by Richter

• A. (i), (ii) and (iii)
• B. (ii) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (iii)
• D. only (ii)

Answer 1

The correct option is B (ii) and (iii)

Theory of spontaneous generation states that life originated from the non-living matter spontaneously.
This theory was disproved by Louis Pasteur. He performed a swan neck flask experiment. He kept nutrient rich broth in the flask and heated (boiled) it, killing all the microorganisms.


Louis Pasteur disproved the theory of spontaneous generation as he believed that life originated from pre-existing organisms.

Cosmozoic theory (theory of panspermia) was given by Richter which states that life on earth came from the outer space and crashed into the earth in the form of spores thereby spreading the spores and starting life.