How does the structure of a mitochondrion affect its function?

in very significant ways.

ultrastructure reveals a very convoluted and specific infolding of the inner mitochondrial membrane. this is to maximize the internal surface area as much as possible for the vast array of metabolic and energy generating reactions, that, on a very large scale, keep you alive.

the gap between the inner and outer membranes is a very important place for energy generating (ATP synthesizing) reactions to occur, as the important enzymes, ion channels and cytochromes are concentrated in there. also, the inside of a mitochondrion contains reactive oxygen , the kind that can be fatal to the cell once they are out of the mitochindrion.

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