1.4.4. Structure and function of mitochondria
Learning Objectives
Success Criteria
 To understand the
 Label a diagram to accurately
structure and function of
mitochondria
show where the ETC occurs
(Grade D-E)
 Explain how and where
chemiosmosis and oxidative
phosphorylation occur
(Grade C)
 Describe how oxygen acts as a
terminal acceptor of protons
and electrons in the ETC
(Grade A-B)
Starter
ATP
Carbon Dioxide
Reduced NAD
Reduced FAD
How many of each one is produced during the following
stages of Aerobic Respiration?
GLYCOLYSIS
LINK REACTION
KREBS CYCLE
Where does respiration occur?
Respiration occurs in all living cells. In eukaryotes the early
stages of respiration occur in the cytoplasm. The later
stages of respiration are restricted to the mitochondria.

Mitochondria contain highly folded inner membranes that
hold key respiratory proteins (including the enzyme that
makes ATP) over a large surface area.

Mitochondria provide an isolated
environment to maintain optimum
conditions for respiration.

Mitochondria have their own DNA and
ribosomes, so can manufacture their
own respiratory enzymes.
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Mitochondria
 Task – Draw a mitochondria and
label
 swap with another student to see if they can add
anything to their picture
 Double membrane
 Big bag stuffed into smaller bag
 Folds of inner bag called cristae
 These cristae contain enzymes of Krebs cycle
 Matrix -space inside inner bag where the Link
Reaction takes place
Mitochondria
Mitochondria are formed from 2
membranes separated by a narrow
inter-membrane space
the inner membrane is folded to
increase its surface area into
extensions called cristae
the biochemical reactions of aerobic
respiration take place in the
mitochondria and they release
chemical energy in the form of ATP
Stalked granule
Matrix
Outer membrane
Intermembrane space
Inner membrane
Crista
On your diagrams describe how the matrix, outer and
inner membrane are adapted for their function
What Happens Where?
 Glycolysis = Cytoplasm of the
cell.
 Link reaction = Matrix of the
mitochondria.
 Krebs cycle = Also in the
matrix.
 Electron transfer chain
Utilises proteins found in the
membrane of the christae.
Task
 Annotate the worksheet – electron transport chain and
describe what each part is responsible for
 Answer questions page 87
Plenary
 find definitions of chemiosmosis, proton motive force,
oxidoreductase enzyme