Mitochondria (sing., mitochondrion) are double-membrane-bound
organelles that are spherical to elongate in shape. A small space
separates the outer membrane from the inner membrane. The inner
membrane folds and doubles in on itself to form incomplete
partitions called cristae (sing., crista). The cristae increase
the surface area available for the chemical reactions that trap
usable energy for the cell. The space between the cristae is the matrix.
The matrix contains ribosomes, circular DNA, and other material.
Because they convert energy to a usable form, mitochondria
are frequently called the “power generators” of the cell. Mitochondria
usually multiply when a cell needs to produce more energy.
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