What is the main function of mitochondria in cells?

Mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because their primary function is to produce energy. They achieve this through a process called cellular respiration, where they convert nutrients, particularly glucose, into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the primary energy currency of the cell, fueling various cellular activities and functions essential for survival and growth.

While it is crucial for cells to manage oxygen levels, waste removal, and temperature regulation, these responsibilities are carried out by other structures or systems within the body. For example, oxygen is transported by hemoglobin in red blood cells, waste products are managed by organelles like lysosomes or by excretory systems, and temperature regulation is mainly controlled by the body's thermoregulatory processes. The unique role of mitochondria in energy production distinguishes them as essential for maintaining the overall metabolic processes within cells.