Which organelle is known as the "powerhouse" of the cell?

The mitochondria are referred to as the "powerhouse" of the cell because they are primarily responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the energy currency of the cell. Through a process called cellular respiration, mitochondria convert nutrients and oxygen into ATP, enabling the cell to perform essential functions and maintain metabolic processes. This capability to generate energy is crucial for all cellular activities, including growth, repair, and maintenance.

While other organelles play significant roles in the cell—such as the nucleus, which houses genetic material; the endoplasmic reticulum, which is involved in protein and lipid synthesis; and the Golgi apparatus, which modifies and packages proteins—none are directly responsible for the primary energy production associated with cellular respiration, which is why mitochondria earn the designation of the "powerhouse."