Multiple Choice
Which statement does not support the endosymbiotic theory?
313
views
5. Cell Components
Endosymbiotic Theory
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
According to the endosymbiotic theory, how did mitochondria become part of eukaryotic cells?
A
Mitochondria evolved from the cell's own internal structures through a series of mutations.
B
Mitochondria were created by the eukaryotic cell to increase energy production.
C
Mitochondria were formed from the fusion of multiple eukaryotic cells.
D
Mitochondria were originally free-living bacteria that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the endosymbiotic theory, which explains the origin of certain organelles in eukaryotic cells, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Recognize that according to this theory, mitochondria were originally free-living prokaryotic organisms, specifically bacteria, that were capable of aerobic respiration.
Learn that these bacteria were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells, which were likely larger and lacked the ability to efficiently produce energy through aerobic respiration.
Understand that instead of digesting these bacteria, the ancestral eukaryotic cells formed a symbiotic relationship with them, allowing the bacteria to live inside the cells and provide them with enhanced energy production capabilities.
Note that over time, these engulfed bacteria evolved into mitochondria, becoming an integral part of the eukaryotic cell, with their own DNA and the ability to replicate independently within the cell.
Related Videos
Related Practice
Endosymbiotic Theory practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations