How many membranes does a typical mitochondrion have?

• A. Three membranes
• B. Two membranes (an outer membrane and an inner membrane)
• C. Four membranes
• D. One membrane

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the basic structure of a mitochondrion, which is an organelle found in eukaryotic cells responsible for energy production.
2. Understand that mitochondria have a double membrane system: an outer membrane that encloses the entire organelle, and an inner membrane that folds inward to form structures called cristae.
3. Recognize that these two membranes create two distinct compartments inside the mitochondrion: the intermembrane space (between the outer and inner membranes) and the matrix (inside the inner membrane).
4. Note that the presence of these two membranes is crucial for the mitochondrion's function in cellular respiration and ATP synthesis.
5. Therefore, the correct answer is that a typical mitochondrion has two membranes: an outer membrane and an inner membrane.