Observations of two different cell types indicate a couple of differences in their mitochondria. Cell type 1 has 2-3 times the mitochondria of Cell Type 2. The mitochondria in Cell Type 1 are also larger, contain more cristae and the cristae extend farther across the mitochondria than in Cell Type 2. Which cell type is likely to have more extensive energy requirements?

The cell type with a higher energy demand would be Cell Type 1.

Explanation:

The mitochondrion is the cellular organelle responsible for cellular respiration (the process that creates chemical energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate or ATP from simple food molecules). Hence, mitochondria are known to be the power house of the cell, because they are responsible for generating energy in form of ATP.

A mitochondrion is bound by layers of membrane: the outer layer which is more permeable for absorption of molecules, and the inner less permeable membrane which has been bent into folds called the cristae.

The cristae increases the surface area of the inner membrane, promoting a more rapid production of ATP by allowing more room for the creation ATP. Therefore, larger and multiple cristae present in the mitochondrion translates to higher energy production.

It stands to reason therefore that Cell Type 1 is more likely to have greater energy requirements than Cell Type 2.

Cell Type 1 is the answer.