This results in a sac with two inner compartments which are seperated by the inner membrane. The first compartment is between the outer and inner membranes, the outer compartment is inside the inner membrane. Function Mitochondria are the site of most of the energy production in eukaryotic cells. They use complex molecules and oxygen to produce a high energy molecule know as ATP . To do this mitochondria carry on a process called aerobic respiration.
Mitochondria are very abundant in cells that require lots of energy.
The inner membrane with the cristea contains enzymes which carry on reactions necessary for the last step in aerobic respiration. The inner compartment also contains enzymes which are necessary for earlier steps in aerobic respiration. Details Mitochondria are very unique in several regards. They have their own DNA and ribosomes. The DNA in the cell nucleus does not code for the construction of mitochondria.