Mitochondria Flashcards
Where are mitochondria located in the cell?
Located in the cytoplasm (floating freely), found in both plant and animal cells.
Where are mitochondria often positioned in a cell?
Freely in the cytoplasm or near areas requiring energy, such as near the nucleus or plasma membrane.
What is the general shape and structure of mitochondria?
They are rod-shaped organelles with double membranes. They have both an inner membrane and outer membrane
What is the outer membrane of mitochondria like?
It is smooth and surrounds the organelle.
What is the inner membrane of mitochondria like?
It is folded into cristae to increase surface area.
What is the mitochondrial matrix?
The space enclosed by the inner membrane of mitochondria.
What is the intermembrane space in mitochondria?
The space between the outer and inner membranes.
What is the primary function of mitochondria?
They are the site of all metabolic processes such as cellular respiration, where energy stored in organic molecules is converted to ATP.
What happens during cellular respiration in mitochondria?
Carbohydrates and other molecules are broken down (via hydrolysis), and energy is converted into ATP.
How do mitochondria generate heat in brown fat cells?
They produce heat instead of ATP through a process called thermogenesis, helping to regulate body temperature.
What role do mitochondria play in calcium regulation?
They store and release calcium ions, which are important for cell signaling, muscle contraction, and maintaining cell homeostasis.
How are mitochondria involved in cell signaling?
They play a role in regulating cell signaling processes and apoptosis (programmed cell death).
What hormones do mitochondria synthesize?
They synthesize certain hormones, such as steroid hormones.
