In short
Mitochondria release energy by breaking down glucose in cellular respiration (present in all aerobic cells); chloroplasts trap light energy to make glucose in photosynthesis (present only in green plants and algae).
Mitochondria vs Chloroplast - Comparison Table
| Basis | Mitochondria | Chloroplast |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Cellular respiration (releases energy) | Photosynthesis (traps energy) |
| Found in | Plant and animal cells | Green plant and algal cells only |
| Pigment | Absent | Chlorophyll (green) |
| Inner folds | Cristae | Thylakoids (grana) |
| Gas exchange | Uses O₂, releases CO₂ | Uses CO₂, releases O₂ |
| Energy conversion | Chemical (glucose) → ATP | Light → chemical (glucose) |
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