What benefit does the cell gain from the presence of mitochondria or chloroplasts?

• A. They both produce ATP through cellular respiration.
• B. Both organelles are responsible for protein synthesis.
• C. They both store genetic information for the cell.
• D. Mitochondria generate ATP through cellular respiration, while chloroplasts produce glucose through photosynthesis.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the primary functions of mitochondria and chloroplasts: Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, primarily responsible for generating ATP through the process of cellular respiration. Chloroplasts, on the other hand, are involved in photosynthesis, where they convert light energy into chemical energy stored as glucose.
2. Recognize the process of cellular respiration in mitochondria: Cellular respiration involves breaking down glucose and other molecules in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This process occurs in the mitochondria and is crucial for providing energy to the cell.
3. Identify the role of chloroplasts in photosynthesis: Chloroplasts capture light energy and use it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process not only provides energy in the form of glucose but also releases oxygen as a byproduct.
4. Differentiate between ATP production and glucose production: While both organelles are involved in energy-related processes, mitochondria focus on producing ATP, which is immediately usable by the cell, whereas chloroplasts produce glucose, which can be stored and later used to generate ATP.
5. Clarify the misconception about protein synthesis and genetic information: Neither mitochondria nor chloroplasts are primarily responsible for protein synthesis; this is mainly the role of ribosomes. Additionally, while both organelles contain some genetic material, they do not store the cell's main genetic information, which is housed in the nucleus.