Rohan suggests that plant cells do not require mitochondria since they have chloroplast . Which of the following statements would you use to convince him otherwise ?

Options

A. Having both chloroplast and mitochondira would maximise the rate of photosynthesis
B. Having both chloroplast and mitochondria would maximise the rate of energy production
C. Mitochondria would be necessary at night when chloroplasts are no longer able to photosynthesise.
D. The chemical energy stored in glucose cannot be efficiently utilised in the cell without mitochondria.

Answer

To convince Rohan that plant cells do indeed require mitochondria despite having chloroplasts, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Functions of Chloroplasts and Mitochondria**:
- Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, where they convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
- Mitochondria are known as the "powerhouse of the cell" because they produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell.

2. **Explaining the Importance of Mitochondria**:
- While chloroplasts can produce glucose during the day through photosynthesis, mitochondria are essential for breaking down this glucose to release energy in the form of ATP.
- This process occurs through cellular respiration, which is crucial for the energy needs of the plant, especially during times when photosynthesis is not occurring (e.g., at night).

3. **Highlighting the Limitations of Chloroplasts**:
- Chloroplasts can only function in the presence of light, meaning they cannot produce energy at night or in the absence of light.
- Mitochondria, on the other hand, can function continuously, providing energy for cellular processes regardless of light availability.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, both organelles serve distinct but complementary roles in the plant cell. Mitochondria are necessary for efficiently utilizing the chemical energy stored in glucose, which is essential for the plant's survival and growth.

### Convincing Statement:
- The most convincing statement to use would be: "The chemical energy stored in glucose will not be able to be used efficiently in the cell if mitochondria are not present."