Which organelle is responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells?

• A. Golgi apparatus
• B. Endoplasmic reticulum
• C. Mitochondrion
• D. Lysosome

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the function of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the primary energy currency of the cell, used to power various cellular processes.
2. Step 2: Recall the process of cellular respiration, which is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose and oxygen into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water. This process occurs in eukaryotic cells.
3. Step 3: Identify the organelle responsible for cellular respiration. The mitochondrion is the organelle where the majority of ATP is produced through processes such as the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation.
4. Step 4: Compare the functions of the other organelles listed in the problem: the Golgi apparatus (involved in protein modification and transport), the endoplasmic reticulum (involved in protein and lipid synthesis), and lysosomes (responsible for breaking down waste materials). None of these are involved in ATP production.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the mitochondrion is the correct answer, as it is the powerhouse of the cell and directly responsible for ATP production through cellular respiration.