Question

what are the distinct differences of the two membranes of the mitochondria?

Answer 1

The outer membrane is a relatively simple phospholipid bilayer, containing protein structures called porins which render it permeable to molecules of about 10 kilodaltons or less (the size of the smallest proteins). Ions, nutrient molecules, ATP, ADP, etc. can pass through the outer membrane with ease.

The inner membrane is freely permeable only to oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water. Its structure is highly complex, including all of the complexes of the electron transport system, the ATP synthetase complex, and transport proteins. The wrinkles, or folds, are organized into lamillae (layers), called the cristae (singlular: crista). The cristae greatly increase the total surface area of the inner membrane.

Answer 2

Thank you! This clarification is extremely helpful!

Answer 3

First of all @klinley : A Warm Welcome to 'Open Study'. Please Read CoC (compulsory to read by all "Open Study" users) : http://openstudy.com/code-of-conduct