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Mitochondria are double-membraned. What does the outer membrane do?
publish date: 2026/06/15 08:00:37.493047 UTC
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The mitochondrion has two membranes - an outer membrane and an inner membrane - each with a distinct role.
What is the function of the outer membrane of the mitochondrion?
Correct Answer
Separates the mitochondria from the cytoplasm
Explanation
The outer membrane of the mitochondrion separates it from the surrounding cytoplasm. The inner membrane, by contrast, has many inwardly directed folds called cristae that extend into a semifluid matrix - the site of ATP synthesis.
Reference
Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide