Who found a way to disprove the hypothesis of spontaneous generation?

The hypothesis of spontaneous generation suggested that living organisms could arise from non-living matter. This idea was widely accepted until the late 19th century when Louis Pasteur conducted a series of experiments that changed the understanding of the origin of life.

Pasteur's experiments, primarily involving the sterilization of broth in swan-necked flasks, demonstrated that microbial life did not spontaneously generate. Instead, his work showed that microorganisms from the air were the cause of contamination when the flasks were opened, thus supporting the idea of biogenesis—the notion that life arises from pre-existing life. His meticulous approach and control of experimental variables provided compelling evidence against spontaneous generation.

The significance of Pasteur's findings not only transformed the field of biology but also had profound implications for medicine and hygiene. His work laid the groundwork for the development of the germ theory of disease, which established the connection between microbes and illnesses.

In summary, Pasteur's experiments are crucial in disproving spontaneous generation, firmly establishing that life arises from existing life forms, thereby reshaping scientific understanding of biological processes.