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ASVAB · Biology and Life Science

Which part of the cell is known as the 'powerhouse' because it produces energy (ATP)?

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Correct answer

Mitochondria

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

Why this is the answer

The MITOCHONDRIA are the 'powerhouse of the cell' — they produce energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. ASVAB General Science tests basic biology. Other organelles: NUCLEUS (contains DNA, controls the cell); RIBOSOMES (make proteins); CELL MEMBRANE (controls what enters/exits); CHLOROPLASTS (in plant cells, do photosynthesis). The mitochondria-as-powerhouse fact is one of the most commonly tested cell biology points.
Source: ASVAB General Science — 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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