What is the powerhouse of the cell?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the organelle responsible for producing energy in a cell, commonly known as the powerhouse of the cell. This refers to the mitochondria, which are essential for cellular respiration and energy production.
Answer
Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell.
The mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is used as a source of chemical energy.
Answer for screen readers
The mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is used as a source of chemical energy.
More Information
Mitochondria are vital organelles within eukaryotic cells, responsible for producing energy through cellular respiration, specifically in the form of ATP. They also play roles in processes such as signaling, cellular differentiation, and apoptosis.
Tips
A common mistake is to think that mitochondria directly produce energy used by the cell; instead, they produce ATP which is used in energy requiring processes.
Sources
- Mitochondria – cell powerhouses - Science Learning Hub - sciencelearn.org.nz
- Mitochondrion - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org