Final answer:
Mitochondria are bean-shaped organelles with an inner membrane folded into cristae, which provides a larger surface area for ATP synthesis. This shape allows for more efficient energy production in cells with high energy demands.
Step-by-step explanation:
A mitochondrion is a bean-shaped organelle that plays a crucial role in energy production in cells through a process called cellular respiration. It consists of an outer membrane and an inner membrane, with the inner membrane being highly folded into structures called cristae. These folds provide a large surface area for various enzymes to carry out the biochemical reactions of cellular respiration, converting nutrients into ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
The shape of the mitochondrion, with its extensive inner membrane and cristae, provides a significant advantage. The increased surface area allows for more enzymes to be present, increasing the efficiency of ATP production. This is particularly important in cells with high energy demands, such as muscle cells or nerve cells. Muscle cells, which require ATP for contraction, have a high concentration of mitochondria, while nerve cells, which need ATP for their sodium-potassium pumps, also have a large number of mitochondria.
In summary, the bean-shaped structure of the mitochondrion, with its inner membrane folds called cristae, provides a
larger surface area for ATP synthesis. This enables more efficient energy production in cells, making it advantageous for cells with high energy demands.