Mitochondria
...e- celled plants and animals. During Brownian movement of the cytoplasm of functioning cells, the mitochondria are moved to regions where they are most required. The structure of the mitochondria is completely related to functioning: The mitochondria are enclosed in two separate membranes, the inner membrane being highly folded. The inner membrane has inward directed folds or ridges, called cristae. The outer and inner membranes as well as the cristae have lots of small particles, which help in the process of respiration. There is fluid and functioning chemical substances found in the space between the two membranes. Mitochondria are known as energy producing organelles or are referred to as the “POWER HOUSES” of the cell. Cells need energy to grow and replicate and the mitochondria supply most of the energy by performing the last stages of the breakdown of food molecules in the process known as Krebs cycle. The Krebs cycle or Citric Acid cycle/ is a series of chemical reactions occurring within the cell. The final breakdown of the food molecules forms carbon dioxide, water and energy. This process, which is carried out by seven enzymes is also know as the Tricarboxylic Acid cycle. The Krebs cycle is active in all animals and higher plants, which contain mitochondria. These stages also involve the consumptio...