Why are Mitochondria Called the Powerhouse of Cell?

Q: WHY ARE MITOCHONDRIA CALLED THE POWERHOUSE OF CELLS? 

Answer: All living things are made of cells. The branch of biology that deals with the structure, behavior, and functions of a cell, is recognised as cell biology. 

A cell contains Cell walls, Plasma Membrane, Nucleus, Cytoplasm, Ribosomes, Mitochondria, Lysosomes, Golgi Bodies, Plastids, etc.

Mitochondria: Present in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, mitochondria are small organelles that produce Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), a source of energy in the cell. 

Structure of the Mitochondria: 

• Double membrane

• Rod-shaped in structure
• Found in both plants and animal cells
• 0.5-1.0 micrometers in diameter

The powerhouse of the Cell: Mitochondria are small membrane-bound- organelles within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells that are involved in releasing energy (ATP) into food, through a process, known as cellular respiration. Henceforth, for this reason, mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell. Cells that require a lot of energy, such as muscle cells, can contain thousands of mitochondria.

The Powerhouse Function: While digesting the food, the breakdown products will enter the cytoplasm, and various chemical reactions can occur. This will lead to the production of 2 universal energy suppliers ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) in the cell. 

Then, the remaining molecular fragments can enter the mitochondria where through a complex chemical reaction, 32-34 ATPs will be produced. 

Other functions of Mitochondria: Various functions can be performed by the Mitochondria. They are as follows: 

1. Cellular respiration is the major function of the mitochondria. 
2. It helps to detoxify ammonia from liver cells.
3. It plays an important role in apoptosis or planned cell death.
4. It also plays a key role in the aging process and the onset of degenerative disease.
5. It helps to maintain an adequate supply of calcium ions within the cell components.
6. The metabolic activities of the cells are regulated by this. 
7. It promotes new cell growth and cell proliferation.
8. Cellular differentiation and cell signaling.