The Structure of Mitochondria Flashcards
What is the structure of mitochondria key to?
The structure of mitochondria is key to energy generation.
What are the two membranes that bound mitochondria?
Mitochondria are bounded by an outer membrane and an innermost membrane.
What is the permeability of the innermost membrane of mitochondria?
The innermost membrane is mostly impermeable to ionic substances, such as protons.
Where does the final stage of energy capture occur in mitochondria?
The final stages of energy capture occur at the inner membrane.
What are NADH and FADH2 in the context of mitochondria?
NADH and FADH2 are charged batteries that have accepted electrons and protons from oxidation reactions.
What happens to high-energy electrons in mitochondria?
High-energy electrons are stripped from molecules and passed through the electron transport chain (ETC).
How many mitochondria can a single cell have?
A single cell can have thousands of mitochondria.
What are the two important processes happening in the inner membrane of mitochondria?
- Energy is released to pump protons out of the mitochondrial matrix. 2. Protons reenter the matrix through ATP synthase to make ATP.
What is the process of creating a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane called?
This process is known as electron transport.
What is the process of ATP production using the energy from protons called?
This process is known as oxidative phosphorylation.
Are electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation interdependent?
Yes, these two components to energy extraction are completely interdependent.
Is the mechanism of energy extraction in mitochondria used by other organisms?
Yes, it is an ancient mechanism used by organisms as different as bacteria and humans, as well as by plants.
Where is the electron transport chain (ETC) located in organisms without mitochondria?
In organisms like bacteria, the ETC is embedded in their cell membranes.
