Table of contents

1. Overview of Cell Biology2h 49m
2. Chemical Components of Cells1h 14m
3. Energy1h 33m
4. DNA, Chromosomes, and Genomes2h 31m
5. DNA to RNA to Protein2h 31m
6. Proteins1h 36m
7. Gene Expression1h 42m
8. Membrane Structure1h 4m
- The Lipid Bilayer
  38m
- Membrane Proteins
  25m
9. Transport Across Membranes1h 52m
10. Anerobic Respiration1h 5m
11. Aerobic Respiration1h 11m
12. Photosynthesis52m
13. Intracellular Protein Transport2h 18m
14. Cell Signaling1h 28m
15. Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement1h 39m
16. Cell Division3h 5m
17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction50m
18. Cell Junctions and Tissues48m
19. Stem Cells13m
- Stem Cells
  13m
20. Cancer44m
21. The Immune System1h 6m
22. Techniques in Cell Biology1h 41m

11. Aerobic Respiration

Mitochondria

Cell Biology

11. Aerobic Respiration

Mitochondria

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Multiple Choice

What is the primary function of the cristae in mitochondria?

They store genetic material for the cell.

They transport vesicles between organelles.

They increase the surface area for ATP production.

They synthesize proteins for export from the cell.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the structure of mitochondria: Mitochondria are double-membraned organelles with an inner membrane that folds into structures called cristae. These folds are critical for their function.

Recognize the role of cristae: The cristae increase the surface area of the inner mitochondrial membrane, which is essential for housing the protein complexes involved in the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.

Connect cristae to ATP production: ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is produced through oxidative phosphorylation, a process that occurs on the inner mitochondrial membrane. The increased surface area provided by the cristae allows for more space for these reactions to occur efficiently.

Eliminate incorrect options: The cristae do not store genetic material (this is the role of the mitochondrial matrix, which contains mitochondrial DNA), transport vesicles (this is a function of the Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum), or synthesize proteins for export (this is the role of ribosomes on the rough ER).

Conclude the correct function: The primary function of the cristae is to increase the surface area for ATP production, making them essential for cellular energy metabolism.