Which cell type would be expected to contain the greatest number of mitochondria due to its high demand for ATP?

• A. Mature red blood cell (erythrocyte)
• B. Goblet cell in the intestinal epithelium specialized for mucus secretion
• C. Cardiac muscle cell (cardiomyocyte)
• D. Adipocyte (fat cell) specialized for lipid storage

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of mitochondria in cells. Mitochondria are the organelles responsible for producing ATP, the energy currency of the cell, through cellular respiration.
2. Step 2: Consider the energy demands of each cell type listed. Cells with high energy requirements will have more mitochondria to meet their ATP needs.
3. Step 3: Analyze each cell type: Mature red blood cells lack mitochondria because they rely on anaerobic metabolism; goblet cells secrete mucus but do not have extremely high energy demands; adipocytes store fat and have moderate energy needs.
4. Step 4: Recognize that cardiac muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) continuously contract to pump blood, requiring a constant and large supply of ATP, thus they contain a high number of mitochondria.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the cell type with the greatest number of mitochondria due to high ATP demand is the cardiac muscle cell.