In 1668, Francesco Redi conducted experiments to investigate the concept of spontaneous generation.He began by putting pieces of meat into identical jars.Some jars were left open to the air, some were sealed, and some were covered with gauze that kept out flies while allowing the meat to be exposed to the air.Redi then observed whether or not fly maggots appeared in the meat.What hypothesis was Redi testing?
A) Spontaneous generation is more likely to occur during the hot days of summer.
B) Maggots do not arise spontaneously, but from eggs laid by adult flies.
C) The type of meat affects whether spontaneous generation occurs.
D) Spontaneous generation can occur only if air is present.
E) Flies will develop from rotting meat if the meat is exposed to air.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Redi was testing the hypothesis that maggots do not arise spontaneously, but from eggs laid by adult flies. By covering some jars with gauze, he allowed air to enter but prevented flies from laying their eggs on the meat. This prevented the appearance of maggots in the gauze-covered jars, while maggots were present in the open jars and the sealed jars. This supported the hypothesis that flies were necessary for the appearance of maggots, rather than spontaneous generation.

In 1668, Francesco Redi Conducted Experiments to Investigate the Concept