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Mitochondria

Definition

Mitochondria are organelles within eukaryotic cells that produce most of the cell’s supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), used as a source of chemical energy.

Related terms

Cristae: These are folds in the inner membrane of mitochondria where much of cellular respiration occurs. They're like solar panels collecting sunlight to generate electricity.

Matrix: The fluid inside mitochondria where some stages of cellular respiration occur. It's akin to the control room in our power plant analogy, where all operations are monitored and managed.

Mitochondrial DNA: This is DNA located in mitochondria; it is inherited only from one’s mother. Consider this as unique blueprints used only by the power plant.

"Mitochondria" appears in:

Study guides (7)

AP Biology - 2.1 Cell Structure: Subcellular Components
AP Biology - 2.2 Cell Structure and Function
AP Biology - 2.3 Cell Size
AP Biology - 2.10 Cell Compartmentalization
AP Biology - 3.6 Cellular Respiration
AP Biology - 5.4 Non-Mendelian Genetics
AP Biology - 7.7 Common Ancestry

Practice Questions (3)

One of the key characteristics that sets eukaryotes apart from prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea) is the presence of ____, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts.
Which type of endosymbiosis is believed to have given rise to mitochondria?
Mitochondria is composed of a double membrane that has infoldings called "cristae," which increase surface area to produce more __.

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