What is the role of mitochondria in cellular respiration?

Mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP through aerobic respiration in eukaryotic cells.

Mitochondria are organelles found in eukaryotic cells that play a crucial role in cellular respiration. They are responsible for producing ATP, the main energy currency of the cell, through aerobic respiration. This process involves the breakdown of glucose and other organic molecules in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.

The mitochondria have an inner and outer membrane, with the inner membrane being highly folded to form cristae. These cristae provide a large surface area for the electron transport chain, which is the final stage of aerobic respiration. This chain consists of a series of protein complexes that transfer electrons from one molecule to another, ultimately leading to the production of ATP.

In addition to producing ATP, mitochondria also play a role in other cellular processes, such as calcium signalling and apoptosis. They are also involved in the synthesis of certain amino acids and lipids.

Overall, the role of mitochondria in cellular respiration is essential for the survival of eukaryotic cells. Without them, cells would not be able to produce the energy needed for basic functions and would eventually die.