help me on this please... its urgent?

Question

How is the structure of a mitochondrion well adapted for the activities it carries out?

Answer 1

One of the most important functions of the mitochondria is to produce ATP, which is the form of energy used in our body. In order to do so, it needs different compartments within itself to keep different concentrations of ions (charged particles) separated from each other. The different compartments are kept separate by membranes; ions can NOT move through them very easily. Usually, cells have special structures called pumps. Pumps are used to move a chemical the cells need against a concentration gradient (it moves from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration, which is the opposite of diffusion.) In the internal membrane, mitochondria have a special structure like a reverse pump which allows ions (specifically, hydrogen, or H+) to move through the membrane, down its concentration gradient but captures its energy to make the ATP. In a micrograph (a picture taken with an electron microscope), you can see all the internal membranes of the mitochondria, which are used to separate the different compartments.

Answer 2

In the biology book I have, the only thing it mentions about structure is that a mitochondrion has two membranes. The outside membrane is smooth and the inner membrane is folded These two membranes form two compartments in which the chemical reactions that produce ATP take place. I know it isn't much but I hope this helps.

Answer 3

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