Multiple Choice
In humans, which cell type typically contains the highest number of mitochondria to meet its constant energy demands?
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11. Aerobic Respiration
Mitochondria
Multiple Choice
In humans, which cell type would typically contain a higher number of mitochondria: a skeletal muscle cell or a skin (epidermal) cell?
A
Skin (epidermal) cell, because it performs more oxidative phosphorylation than muscle
B
Both cell types contain the same number of mitochondria because mitochondria number is fixed per cell type
C
Neither; human cells generally lack mitochondria and rely on cytosolic ATP production
D
Skeletal muscle cell, because it has higher ATP demand for contraction
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the function of mitochondria: Mitochondria are the organelles responsible for producing ATP through oxidative phosphorylation, which is essential for energy-demanding cellular activities.
Compare the energy demands of the two cell types: Skeletal muscle cells require a large amount of ATP to sustain muscle contraction, which is an energy-intensive process, whereas skin (epidermal) cells have lower energy requirements.
Relate mitochondria number to energy demand: Cells with higher energy demands typically contain more mitochondria to meet their ATP needs efficiently.
Apply this knowledge to the problem: Since skeletal muscle cells have a higher ATP demand due to contraction, they will contain more mitochondria compared to skin cells.
Conclude that the correct answer is skeletal muscle cells have more mitochondria because they require more ATP for their function.
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