What is the role of mitochondria in cellular respiration and how are they structured?
Understand the Problem
The question involves understanding the structure and function of mitochondria, specifically their role in ATP production and the processes of aerobic respiration including the components of their membranes and spaces.
Answer
Mitochondria convert food energy into ATP through respiration. Double membrane and cristae increase surface area for energy production.
Mitochondria convert chemical energy in food into ATP through cellular respiration. Structured with a double membrane, the inner membrane's folds (cristae) increase surface area, facilitating enzyme activity essential for ATP production. They separate the intermembrane space and matrix, where respiration occurs.
Answer for screen readers
Mitochondria convert chemical energy in food into ATP through cellular respiration. Structured with a double membrane, the inner membrane's folds (cristae) increase surface area, facilitating enzyme activity essential for ATP production. They separate the intermembrane space and matrix, where respiration occurs.
More Information
Mitochondria contain their own DNA and ribosomes, similar to bacteria, highlighting their evolutionary origins. The cristae’s surface area is crucial for housing the proteins and enzymes necessary for efficient ATP production.
Tips
Avoid confusing the roles of the inner and outer membranes. Ensure understanding of how ATP is generated in the matrix and intermembrane space.
Sources
- Mitochondria: Structure and Role in Respiration - Wiley Online Library - onlinelibrary.wiley.com
- Mitochondria - The Cell - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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