Mitochondria - The Powerhouse Of The Cell

                           Mitochondria Structure                                           

 Mitochondria are filamentous or granular cytoplasmic organelles called "the powerhouse of the cell" . Under light microscope mitochondria are seen in the form of thread like structure , therefore they are named as Mitochondria. 
Mitochondria was first observed by Kolliker in 1880 & later Fleming in 1882. The term Mitochondria was given by Benda (1897). 

Distribution -

Mitochondria are uniformly distributed in the cytoplasm of all eukaryotic cells. They are absent in the prokaryotic cells. 

Shape & Size -

Saucer & Oval are two common shapes of mitochondria are found in cells. The size of mitochondria is 1-10 0.5 micrometers (µm). 

Structure -

 Mitochondria is double membrane bound organelle. These membrane is made up of lipoprtiens. These membranes is seperated by an intermembrane space called Outer Compartment . The outer mitochondrial membrane forms outer boundry of mitochondria & the innermembrane is projected into the central space in the form of fingerlike projections called Cristae. The innermembrane lines the innermost compartment which is filled with the gel like matrix .

F₀-F₁ complex (also called ATP synthase) Or Oxysomes - The innermembrane & cristae are covered with special particles , known as F₁  particles. Each F₁  particle can be divided into base piece , stalk & head piece. 

Function - 

• The mitochondria perorms most important functions like oxidation , dehydrogenation , phosphorylation.
  
  
• Mitochondria are actual respiratory centers of the cells where the carbohydrates & fats are completely oxidized into CO2​ & H2​O. Energy released during this process is stored in the mitochondria in the form of ATP. The ATP is used in vital activities . Thus , mitochondria are called as ' Power House Of the Cell ".