Question

Cyanide binds to at least one molecule involved in producing ATP. If a cell is exposed to cyanide, most of the cyanide will be found within the

(A) mitochondria

(B) ribosomes

(C) peroxisomes

(D) lysosomes

Short answer

(A) The option “mitochondria” is correct.

(B) The option “ribosomes” is incorrect.

(C) The option “peroxisomes” is incorrect.

(D) The option “lysosomes” isincorrect.

Step-by-step solution

ATP and its functions

ATP or adenosine triphosphate is the term for energy currency in the body. By breaking the high-energy bond of ATP, the body produces energy utilized in carrying out all the activities within the body. This currency is produced with the help of respiratory enzymes present in the cell.

Explanation for option (A)

Mitochondria is an organelle known for folding toward the inside. This folding is produced in the inner membrane. The inner membrane bears the F_o and F₁ particles.

It contains the respiratory enzyme, which helps in the synthesis of the molecule called ATP. Cyanide action is to disturb the respiratory pathway, which occurs in the mitochondria, so maximum cyanide will be observed in the case of the mitochondria.

Thus, the option is correct.

Explanation for option (B)

Ribosomes are the protein construction house of the cell.They are concerned with the process of translation, where proteins are formed from the RNA. This organelle is common in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes but is not concerned with the synthesis of ATP.

Thus, the option is incorrect.

Explanation for option (C)

Peroxisomes are tiny, circular organelles whose primary work is to remove toxins produced in the cell; they are not related to ATP production. Although some cyanide will be found here, too, maximum will be observed in the case of mitochondria.

Thus, the option is incorrect.

Explanation for option (D)

Lysosomes are the suicidal bags of the cell; they are concerned with the activity of destruction and removing different poisonous substances from the cell. They contain autolytic enzymes.

Thus, the option is incorrect.