The mitochondrial inner membrane carries out the same function in cellular respiration as the thylakoid membrane of chloroplasts in photosynthesis. Which of the following correctly completes the sentence above?
A.
Thylakoid
B.
Epithelial
C.
Nuclear
D.
Tonoplast
The correct completion of the sentence is “D. Thylakoid.”
Approach to solving the question: Analytical
Detailed explanation:
The mitochondrial inner membrane and the thylakoid membrane in chloroplasts both play crucial roles in energy conversion processes in cells. Specifically, the mitochondrial inner membrane is involved in cellular respiration, which is responsible for generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of cells.
Cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria and involves a series of biochemical reactions that break down organic molecules (such as glucose) to produce ATP. The inner membrane of the mitochondria is highly folded into structures called cristae, which increase the surface area available for chemical reactions. These folds contain various proteins and enzyme complexes involved in the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.
On the other hand, the thylakoid membrane is found within the chloroplasts of plant cells and is responsible for photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. The thylakoid membrane contains chlorophyll and other pigments that capture light energy. This energy is then used to power the electron transport chain and generate ATP, just as in cellular respiration.
In summary, while the mitochondrial inner membrane carries out cellular respiration, the thylakoid membrane in chloroplasts carries out the same function, but in the context of photosynthesis