Question

Explain the structure of mitochondria with a neat sketch.

Answer 1

Mitochondria:

1. Mitochondria are tube-like membrane-bound cell organelles located in the cytoplasm that provide the energy required to the cell for various activities in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
2. They are known as the powerhouse of the cell because the energy required for various activities necessary for life is provided by mitochondria.
3. The size of the mitochondria ranges from 0.5 to 1.0 micrometers in diameter.
4. They are usually rod-shaped in structure and are enclosed by a double membrane envelope. The two membrane envelopes are the outer membrane and the inner membrane.
5. The outer membrane of the mitochondria acts as a cover for the organelles.
6. The inner membrane of mitochondria consists of many folds like projections known as cristae that help in increasing the surface area inside the organelles.
7. The outer membrane and inner membrane of mitochondria are separated by a space known as intermembrane space.
8. The fluid present inside the mitochondria is known as a matrix.