Why is Antonie van Leeuwenhoek considered the founder of microbiology?
He was the first to use a microscope.
He discovered cells.
He created a classification system for living things.
He studied cells and organisms such as bacteria.

Explanation:

1. He was the first to use a microscope.
   • Clarification: While van Leeuwenhoek was not the first to use a microscope, he significantly improved its design. Earlier microscopes had relatively low magnification and poor quality. Van Leeuwenhoek crafted his own microscopes with superior lenses, allowing him to achieve magnifications up to 270x, which was groundbreaking at the time.
2. He discovered cells.
   • Clarification: The discovery of cells is credited to Robert Hooke, who in 1665 observed the cellular structure of cork and coined the term “cells.” Van Leeuwenhoek’s contributions were more focused on living microorganisms rather than plant cells.
3. He created a classification system for living things.
   • Clarification: Van Leeuwenhoek did not develop a formal classification system. Instead, his primary contribution was the observation and description of microorganisms, laying the groundwork for future studies in microbiology.
4. He studied cells and organisms such as bacteria.
   • Correct Reason: Van Leeuwenhoek meticulously observed and documented a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, protozoa, and sperm cells. His detailed letters to the Royal Society introduced the scientific community to these previously unseen forms of life, fundamentally transforming our understanding of biology and establishing the field of microbiology.

Summary