Problem 127 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

How is a new mitochondria formed by the pre-existing ones? (a) Mitosis (b) Fission (c) Conjugation (d) Budding

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

New mitochondria are formed from pre-existing ones through (b) Fission. Mitochondria replicate via a kind of binary fission, not by mitosis, conjugation, or budding.

Step 1: Understanding the options

First, it's important to discuss each alternative: (a) Mitosis is the process of cell division in eukaryotic cells; it doesn't concern organelles like mitochondria. (b) Fission is a type of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms. However, it's also used to describe the process of cellular organelles division, including mitochondria. (c) Conjugation is a process of DNA exchange between two cells, which doesn't apply to organelle reproduction. (d) Budding is a form of asexual reproduction where a new organism grows out of the parent. This isn't applicable to mitochondria.

Step 2: Linking the Options to the Mitochondrial Division

It can therefore be concluded that mitosis, conjugation, and budding do not fit with the division of mitochondria. Instead, mitochondria replicate via a kind of binary fission, which is why (b) 'Fission' is the only correct answer in this context.

Step 3: Final Answer

Having examined all four possibilities, the conclusion is that 'Fission' is the process by which new mitochondria are formed from pre-existing ones.