Mitochondria

cell biology · energy · tiny structures

The powerhouse. Mitochondria are called the powerhouse of the cell because they convert food and oxygen into a special energy molecule called ATP that powers everything your cells do.

Double walled fortress. Mitochondria have two layers of membrane wrapped around them like a fortress with an outer wall and inner wall, which helps them create energy super efficiently.

Ancient discovery. Scientists first spotted mitochondria way back in 1857 when Albert von Kölliker looked at insect muscles under a microscope, though they didn't get their fancy name until 1898.

Found everywhere. Mitochondria live inside almost all animal, plant, and fungal cells, though bacteria don't have them because they're a different type of living thing entirely.

Needs oxygen. Mitochondria use a process called aerobic respiration, which means they need oxygen to work their magic and turn your food into usable energy.