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Multiple Choice
Why do heart cells have a higher percentage of mitochondria than liver and pituitary gland cells?
A
Because heart cells require more ATP to sustain continuous muscle contraction.
B
Because heart cells are responsible for hormone production, which is energy-intensive.
C
Because heart cells perform photosynthesis and need more energy.
D
Because heart cells store more glycogen than other cell types.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of mitochondria: Mitochondria are organelles responsible for producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of the cell, through cellular respiration.
Analyze the function of heart cells: Heart cells (cardiomyocytes) are specialized for continuous and rhythmic muscle contraction to pump blood throughout the body. This process requires a significant amount of energy in the form of ATP.
Compare energy demands: Liver cells and pituitary gland cells perform important functions like metabolism and hormone production, but their energy demands are not as constant or intense as the continuous contraction of heart cells.
Eliminate incorrect options: Heart cells do not perform photosynthesis (a process exclusive to plants and some microorganisms), nor do they store more glycogen than other cell types. These options are biologically inaccurate.
Conclude the correct answer: Heart cells have a higher percentage of mitochondria because they require more ATP to sustain continuous muscle contraction, making this the most logical and scientifically accurate explanation.