What organelle is responsible for energy production in cells?

The mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell due to their critical role in energy production. They are responsible for converting nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through the process of cellular respiration, which occurs in several stages: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain. This ATP serves as the primary energy currency of the cell, providing the necessary power for various cellular functions.

In contrast, chloroplasts, while important for energy production in plants through photosynthesis, mainly convert solar energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, rather than directly producing ATP for cellular activities. Lysosomes function primarily as digestive organelles, breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. Additionally, ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis but do not play any direct role in energy production. Thus, the distinct functionality of mitochondria highlights their fundamental role in energy metabolism within cells.