Muscle cells in athletes often have more mitochondria than muscle cells in nonathletes. What can be inferred from this observation?

Question

A.
Muscle cells in athletes have a smaller supply of cell proteins than muscle cells of nonathletes.

B.
Muscle cells in athletes reproduce less frequently than muscle cells of nonathletes.

C.
Muscle cells in athletes have nuclei containing more DNA than nuclei in muscle cells of nonathletes.

D.
Muscle cells in athletes have a greater demand for energy than muscle cells of nonathletes.

Answer 1

The correct inference from the observation that muscle cells in athletes often have more mitochondria than muscle cells in nonathletes is:

D. Muscle cells in athletes have a greater demand for energy than muscle cells of nonathletes.

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell, as they are responsible for producing ATP, the primary energy carrier in cells. Athletes typically engage in more rigorous physical activity, which increases their energy requirements, thereby leading to an increase in the number of mitochondria in their muscle cells to meet this heightened demand for energy.