The folds of the inner mitochondrial membrane (cristae) are important because they
- A
Form the matrix compartment where the citric acid cycle reactions occur
- B
Hold mitochondrial DNA tightly bound for replication with the nuclear genome
- Ccheck_circle
Greatly increase surface area for the electron transport chain and ATP synthase
- D
Reduce surface area exposed to the matrix to slow ATP production for the cell
Explanation
Cristae pack more ETC complexes and ATP synthase per cell. Cells with high energy demand (e.g., heart muscle) have very densely folded cristae.