Question
Discuss the structure and functions of mitochondria.

Answer


Structure of mitochondria: Mitochondria are tiny bodies of varying shapes and size, found in the cytoplasm. Each mitochondrion is covered by a double-membrane envelope. Outer membrane is smooth and porous while inner membrane is projected with finger-like structures, the cristae. These cristae create a large surface area for $ATP$-generating chemical reactions. The cristae as well as inner membrane possess small tent like particles called $F1$ particles or oxysomes.
The cavity of mitochondria is filled with matrix. The mitochondrial matrix contains lipids, proteins, circular $DNA$ and $RNA$.

Functions of mitochondria:
  1. Mitochondria is the site of cellular respiration or oxidation of food in a cell.
  2. The energy, released in the form of $ATP$, is used by body cells to synthesise new chemical compounds and to carry out other metabolic activities.

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