What is the main function of mitochondria?

Mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because their primary function is energy production. They convert the chemical energy stored in glucose and other nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell, through a process known as cellular respiration. This process involves several stages, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain, all of which occur in various parts of the mitochondria.

The energy produced by mitochondria is crucial for powering a wide range of cellular activities, including muscle contractions, nerve impulses, and biosynthesis of molecules.

While mitochondria play significant roles in other processes, such as regulating the cell's metabolism and contributing to apoptosis (programmed cell death), their primary function is undeniably linked to energy production. Consequently, this makes the option relating to energy production the correct and most relevant choice in this context.