Mitochondria vs. Plastids: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 28, 2023
Mitochondria produce energy for cells; plastids are involved in synthesis and storage in plant cells.
Key Differences
Mitochondria are organelles found in nearly all eukaryotic cells, responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell's main energy currency. Plastids, on the other hand, are found exclusively in plant cells and certain algae, playing roles in synthesis and storage.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria have a double-membrane structure, with an inner and outer membrane, facilitating various metabolic processes. Plastids come in multiple forms, such as chloroplasts (for photosynthesis), chromoplasts (for pigment synthesis and storage), and leucoplasts (for synthesis and storage of molecules like starch).
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Both mitochondria and plastids are believed to have originated from ancient symbiotic bacteria through a process called endosymbiosis. However, while mitochondria are prevalent in almost all eukaryotes, plastids remain specific to plants and certain algal species.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Types
One main type.
Multiple types (chloroplasts, chromoplasts, leucoplasts).
Aimie Carlson
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria and Plastids Definitions
Mitochondria
Powerhouses of the cell.
Without mitochondria, cells would lack energy.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 28, 2023
Plastids
Involved in synthesis and storage.
Starches are stored in certain plastids called amyloplasts.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
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Mitochondria
Organelles that generate energy.
Cells rely on mitochondria for their energy needs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
Plastids
Sites for photosynthesis in plants.
Chloroplasts, a type of plastid, contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis.
Harlon Moss
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria
Sites of cellular respiration.
Oxygen is utilized by mitochondria to produce ATP.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Plastids
Originated from ancient cyanobacteria.
Plastids share similarities with cyanobacteria, indicating a shared ancestry.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria
Originated from ancient bacteria.
The theory of endosymbiosis explains the origin of mitochondria.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
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Plastids
Have diverse forms and functions.
Chromoplasts are plastids that store pigments in plants.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria
Double-membraned organelles.
The unique structure of mitochondria facilitates its function.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 28, 2023
Plastids
Organelles found in plant cells.
Plastids play vital roles in photosynthesis and storage.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
Mitochondria
A spherical or elongated organelle in the cytoplasm of nearly all eukaryotic cells, conning genetic material and many enzymes important for cell metabolism, including those responsible for the conversion of food to usable energy.
Sumera Saeed
May 15, 2019
Plastids
Any of several cytoplasmic organelles, such as chloroplasts, that contain genetic material, have a double membrane, and are often pigmented. Plastids are found in plants, algae, and certain other eukaryotic organisms and have various physiological functions, such as the synthesis and storage of food.
Sumera Saeed
May 15, 2019
Mitochondria
Plural of mitochondrion
Muscles contain many mitochondria so that they can have large energy supplies.
Sumera Saeed
May 15, 2019
FAQs
What is the primary function of mitochondria?
Mitochondria produce ATP, the main energy currency of cells.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Are plastids present in animal cells?
No, plastids are exclusive to plant cells and some algae.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 28, 2023
Why are mitochondria called the powerhouse of the cell?
Because they generate most of the cell's energy through ATP production.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Are there different types of mitochondria?
Mitochondria are generally uniform in function but can vary in shape and number.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
Do all cells contain mitochondria?
Nearly all eukaryotic cells contain mitochondria, with few exceptions.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
How do mitochondria produce energy?
Through a process called cellular respiration, using oxygen to produce ATP.
Harlon Moss
Oct 28, 2023
What's the significance of mitochondria in health and disease?
Mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to various diseases, including some neurological disorders.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
What is the role of chloroplasts?
Chloroplasts, a type of plastid, are involved in photosynthesis in plants.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
Are plastids and chloroplasts the same?
Chloroplasts are a type of plastid specifically involved in photosynthesis.
Harlon Moss
Oct 28, 2023
Do mitochondria have their own DNA?
Yes, mitochondria have their own circular DNA, separate from the cell's nucleus.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 28, 2023
What do leucoplasts store?
Leucoplasts, a type of plastid, store molecules like starches and oils.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
How did mitochondria evolve?
They are believed to have originated from ancient symbiotic bacteria via endosymbiosis.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
Where are plastids located in a cell?
Plastids are found in the cytoplasm of plant cells.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 28, 2023
Do plastids have their own DNA?
Yes, plastids also have their own circular DNA.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
What do chromoplasts store?
Chromoplasts, a type of plastid, store pigments in plants.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
What's the significance of the double membrane in mitochondria?
It aids in compartmentalization and efficient energy production.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 28, 2023
How are plastids essential for plant survival?
Plastids play roles in photosynthesis, storage, and pigment synthesis, crucial for growth and reproduction.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
How are mitochondria inherited?
Mitochondria are typically inherited maternally, passed from mother to offspring.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
How many types of plastids exist?
There are multiple types, including chloroplasts, chromoplasts, and leucoplasts.
Sara Rehman
Oct 28, 2023
Can plastids change their type?
Yes, plastids can differentiate into other types based on the cell's needs.
Janet White
Oct 28, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
