ASVAB · Biology and Life Science

What is the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for producing energy?

Correct answer

Mitochondria

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

Why this is the answer

The mitochondria are often called the 'powerhouse of the cell' because they produce most of the cell's energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. The nucleus contains the cell's DNA and controls its activities; ribosomes build proteins; and the cell membrane controls what enters and leaves the cell. Knowing the main organelles and their functions is core General Science content. Mitochondria convert nutrients and oxygen into usable energy, which is why cells with high energy needs (like muscle cells) contain many of them.
Source: ASVAB GS, Cell Organelles

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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.

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