Question

Who coined the term mitochondria? (a) Altman (b) Benda (c) de Duve (d) C. Golgi

Short answer

The term 'mitochondria' was coined by (b) Benda.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The exercise is asking who among the listed individuals is responsible for coining the term 'mitochondria.' This is a historical fact, and identifying the correct person requires knowledge of cell biology history.

Recalling Historical Facts

The term 'mitochondria' was coined by the scientist Carl Benda in 1898. It is important to remember key historical figures in biology and their contributions to the field.

Choosing the Correct Answer

Since Carl Benda is the one who coined the term 'mitochondria,' the correct answer from the provided options will be (b) Benda.

Key concepts

Cell Biology

Cell biology, also known as cytology, is the branch of biology that studies the structure and function of cells, which are the basic units of life. It encompasses both the microscopic study of the cell's anatomy and physiology and the understanding of how cells interact with each other in multicellular organisms.

Within each cell, a collection of organelles can be found, each with a distinct role that contributes to the cell's survival and function. One such organelle is the mitochondrion, often described as the 'powerhouse' of the cell because of its role in producing the energy currency of the cell, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Here's an important point to make the information more graspable: mitochondria are unique among organelles in that they have their own DNA and are believed to originate from ancient symbiotic bacteria, a concept central to the endosymbiotic theory.

Carl Benda

Carl Benda was a German anatomist and histologist noted for his research into cell structure. Born in 1857, his career spanned a pivotal time in biological sciences, where many discoveries were transforming the understanding of cellular biology. In 1898, Benda made a significant contribution to the field when he first used the term 'mitochondria' to describe the thread-like granules he observed within cells.

To highlight Benda's contribution and help students remember, consider this mnemonic: 'Benda bonded the term mitochondria to biology.' His careful observation and labeling of these structures facilitated further research, ultimately leading to a greater comprehension of cellular respiration and metabolism.

Biological Terminology

Biological terminology consists of a vast array of words and phrases used to precisely describe the numerous concepts, processes, and structures within the field of biology. The importance of accurate terminology cannot be overstated; it allows efficient and clear communication among scientists and ensures consistency in understanding biological phenomena.

When studying cell biology, becoming familiar with terms like 'mitochondria' ('mitos' meaning thread, 'chondrion' meaning granule), 'lysosome', or 'ribosome' is crucial. Each word serves as shorthand for complex structures or concepts. For instance, 'mitochondria' encapsulates a complex organelle with a specific function and heritage inside the cell. Remember that each scientific term carries with it a rich history of discovery and research, often attributed to scientists like Carl Benda and others.