Question

Explain why cells involved in the selective reabsorption of glucose contain many mitochondria.

A) To produce glucose
B) To break down glucose
C) To store glucose
D) To utilize glucose for energy

Answer 1

Cells involved in selective reabsorption of glucose contain many mitochondria to utilize glucose for energy, as this process is energy-intensive and requires ATP, which is produced during cellular respiration within mitochondria.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cells involved in the selective reabsorption of glucose contain many mitochondria to utilize glucose for energy. The process of glucose reabsorption, particularly in the kidneys, is energy intensive as it often occurs against a concentration gradient, necessitating the need for ATP.

The mitochondria are essential because they are the site of cellular respiration, a key metabolic process that converts glucose into ATP. The mitochondria produce ATP using the chemical energy found in glucose through a series of reactions including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain. Particularly during glycolysis, glucose is broken down to form pyruvate, which enters the mitochondria and is further processed to generate ATP.

Thus, to sustain the active transport mechanisms required for the reabsorption of glucose, cells require a substantial amount of ATP, for which they need many mitochondria. The correct answer to why cells involved in the selective reabsorption of glucose contain many mitochondria is D) To utilize glucose for energy.