Structure of mitochondria

• What shape are mitochondria?

  Rod-shaped
• What is the diameter range of mitochondria?

  0.5 - 1.0 µm
• What is the primary site of aerobic respiration in eukaryotic cells?

  Mitochondria
• What is the main function of mitochondria?

  Synthesize ATP
• During which stage of respiration is ATP synthesized in mitochondria?

  Oxidative phosphorylation
• What is the role of the electron transport chain in mitochondria?

  Facilitates oxidative phosphorylation
• What type of membranes do mitochondria have?

  Two phospholipid membranes
• What characterizes the outer membrane of mitochondria?

  Smooth and permeable to small molecules
• What is a key feature of the inner membrane of mitochondria?

  It is folded into cristae
• Where is the electron transport chain located in mitochondria?

  On the inner membrane
• What is the pH level of the intermembrane space in mitochondria?


  Low pH due to high proton concentration
• What is formed during oxidative phosphorylation that is essential for ATP synthesis?

  A concentration gradient across the inner membrane
• What does the matrix of mitochondria contain?

  Ribosomes, enzymes, and circular DNA
• How does the structure of mitochondria relate to their function?

  Large surface area for ATP synthesis
• Why do more active cell types have larger mitochondria?

  To synthesize more ATP
• Which type of cells have more mitochondria per cell?

  Muscle cells
• How does the structure of cristae benefit mitochondria?

  • Increases surface area of inner membrane
  • Allows more electron transport chain proteins
  • Enables more ATP synthase enzymes
  • Results in higher ATP production
• What should you include when explaining mitochondrial structure-function relationships in exams?

  • Mention cristae's role in surface area
  • Explain how this increases ATP production
  • Identify structures from electron micrographs
• What is the function of ATP synthase in mitochondria?

  Produces ATP during oxidative phosphorylation
• What is the significance of the concentration gradient in mitochondria?

  Essential for ATP synthesis
• How does the number of mitochondria relate to cell activity?

  More active cells have more mitochondria