Which organelle is known as the "powerhouse of the cell"?
A. Nucleus
B. Ribosome
C. Mitochondrion
D. Golgi apparatus
Answer (1)
The correct answer is C. Mitochondrion The mitochondrion is often referred to as the "powerhouse of the cell" because it is the site where most of the cell's adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is produced. ATP is the primary energy carrier used by cells to perform various functions such as movement, transport, synthesis of molecules, and cell division. Inside the mitochondria, a process called cellular respiration takes place. This involves breaking down glucose and oxygen to produce ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.Mitochondria have their own DNA and ribosomes, which means they can reproduce and produce some of their own proteins independently from the rest of the cell. This supports the theory that mitochondria were once free-living organisms that became integrated into eukaryotic cells (endosymbiotic theory).Cells that require a lot of energy, such as muscle cells and nerve cells, have a large number of mitochondria. Without the mitochondria functioning properly, a cell would lack the energy to survive, even if all the nutrients are present. That’s why mitochondrial diseases often affect organs that require a lot of energy like the brain, heart, and muscles.In contrast:The nucleus contains the genetic material and controls the cell’s activities.The ribosome is where protein synthesis takes place.The Golgi apparatus modifies and packages proteins for delivery.
