Which of the following is the primary reason that mitochondria and chloroplasts possess highly folded inner membranes?
Understand the Problem
This question is asking about the primary reason why mitochondria and chloroplasts have highly folded inner membranes (cristae and thylakoids, respectively). Understanding the function of these organelles in energy production (cellular respiration and photosynthesis) is key to answering this question.
Answer
To increase the surface area for more efficient energy (ATP and NADPH) production.
The primary reason mitochondria and chloroplasts possess highly folded inner membranes is to increase the surface area for ATP and NADPH production, which allows for more efficient energy production.
Answer for screen readers
The primary reason mitochondria and chloroplasts possess highly folded inner membranes is to increase the surface area for ATP and NADPH production, which allows for more efficient energy production.
More Information
The folds in the inner membranes of mitochondria are called cristae, while in chloroplasts, they are called thylakoids. Both structures serve the same purpose: maximizing surface area.
Tips
A common mistake is to focus on the structural aspect of the folds rather than their functional significance in increasing surface area for energy production.
Sources
- The ATP synthase is involved in generating mitochondrial cristae ... - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Mitochondria and chloroplasts (article) - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- Why is the inner membrane of mitochondria folded? - Quora - quora.com
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