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ASVAB · Biology and Life Science

What organelle is the 'powerhouse of the cell'?

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Correct answer

Mitochondria

  1. A Mitochondria
  2. B Ribosome
  3. C Nucleus
  4. D Vacuole

Why this is the answer

Mitochondria produce ATP (cellular energy) through aerobic respiration — the powerhouse of the cell. The mitochondrion breaks down glucose with oxygen to release energy stored as ATP, which powers almost everything the cell does. The distractors have other jobs: the nucleus stores DNA and controls the cell, ribosomes build proteins, and vacuoles store water and waste (they are large in plant cells). Cells with high energy needs, such as muscle cells, contain many mitochondria.
Source: ASVAB GS, Cell Biology

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About this topic: Biology and Life Science

Biology questions cover cells and their organelles, genetics and heredity, classification, photosynthesis and respiration, and ecosystems. These are recall questions — know the vocabulary and the function of each structure. This is one of 15 General Science questions on biology and life science, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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