[06] Mitochondrial Function and Energy Production Flashcards
What is the primary role of mitochondria in cells?
Mitochondria are primarily responsible for producing ATP, the main energy currency of cells, through a process called cellular respiration.
What is ATP?
ATP, or Adenosine Triphosphate, is the main molecule that stores and transfers energy in cells.
Where is ATP produced in a cell?
ATP is mainly produced in the mitochondria.
What are the three main stages of cellular respiration?
- Glycolysis
- Krebs cycle (Citric Acid Cycle)
- Electron transport chain
Where does glycolysis occur in the cell?
Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm of the cell.
Where does the Krebs cycle occur in the cell?
The Krebs cycle occurs in the mitochondrial matrix.
Where does the electron transport chain occur in the cell?
The electron transport chain occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane.
What is the output of glycolysis?
- 2 ATP
- 2 NADH
- 2 Pyruvate
What is the output of the Krebs cycle?
For each glucose molecule:
- 2 ATP
- 6 NADH
- 2 FADH2
What is the output of the electron transport chain?
The electron transport chain produces about 34 ATP molecules per glucose molecule, along with water.
What role does oxygen play in cellular respiration?
Oxygen serves as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain and combines with hydrogen to form water.
What is the end product of cellular respiration?
The end products of cellular respiration are ATP, water, and carbon dioxide.
What is the significance of mitochondrial function in energy production?
Mitochondrial function is crucial for energy production as it carries out the processes (Krebs cycle, electron transport chain) that generate the majority of ATP in cells.
What happens if mitochondria are not functioning properly?
If mitochondria are not functioning properly, energy production is hampered, which can lead to various health problems, as cells may not perform their functions efficiently.
