I am supposed to do an essay on compartmentalization of cell respriation but i don't know what it means. my essay is as follows:

Compartmentalization is important in carrying out cell respiration. Describe the use of compartmentalization in carrying out cell respiration.

I just don't understand what they want me to write about.

Compartmentalization means to organize into smaller groups.

Since this is not my area of expertise, I searched Google under the key words "Compartmentalization 'cell respiration'" to get these possible sources:

http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/bio99/bio99163.htm
http://webclass.angelo.edu/biology/Scenarios/StudyGuides/Rainforest/rainforest.php
http://books.google.com/books?id=-MCP3vAx1zkC&pg=PA44&lpg=PA44&dq=compartmentalization+%22cell+respiration%22&source=web&ots=ancORu4BD2&sig=m13EdmwQF5sO2BG5o9EPU0Ffyfo#PPA44,M1

In the future, you can find the information you desire more quickly, if you use appropriate key words to do your own search.

I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.

In order to understand the concept of compartmentalization in cell respiration for your essay, let me explain it to you.

Compartmentalization refers to the division of cellular activities within specialized compartments known as organelles. Cells use organelles to separate and organize specific biochemical reactions, ensuring that different processes occur efficiently and independently.

To write your essay, you should describe specific organelles involved in cell respiration and how their compartmentalization facilitates the process. Here's a breakdown of the information you can include:

1. Mitochondria: The primary organelle responsible for cell respiration is the mitochondria. It consists of an outer membrane, inner membrane, and a fluid-filled matrix. The compartmentalization of the mitochondria is essential for its function.

2. Inner Membrane of Mitochondria: The inner membrane is folded into structures known as cristae, increasing its surface area. These folds play a critical role in the efficiency of cell respiration by providing more space for chemical reactions to occur.

3. Intermembrane Space: Located between the outer and inner membranes of the mitochondria, this compartment serves as a space for the movement of protons (H+) during the electron transport chain, a crucial step in cell respiration.

4. Matrix: The fluid-filled matrix within the mitochondria contains enzymes necessary for the citric acid cycle (also called the Krebs cycle), which is an important step in generating energy-rich molecules during cell respiration.

5. Glycolysis: Although not directly related to compartmentalization, you can mention that glycolysis, the first step of cell respiration, occurs in the cytoplasm where glucose is broken down into pyruvate.

By discussing the various compartments involved in cell respiration and their respective functions, you can highlight the significance of compartmentalization in ensuring the efficiency and regulation of these biochemical processes.

Remember to consult additional resources and scientific literature for a more comprehensive understanding and to gather supporting evidence for your essay.