Which of the following organelles is responsible for producing ATP?

The mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouse of the cell" because they are the organelles primarily responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. Through a process known as cellular respiration, mitochondria convert nutrients, particularly glucose, into ATP using oxygen. This process occurs in several stages, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain, all of which take place within different parts of the mitochondria. The ATP produced is essential for fueling various cellular activities and processes.

Mitochondria have a unique double membrane structure and contain their own DNA, hinting at their evolutionary origin as independent organisms. This specialized function of mitochondria in energy production is critical for the survival and functioning of both plant and animal cells.