Which of the following organelles is primarily responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of ATP in cells. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency of the cell, used to power various biological processes.
2. Step 2: Recall the process of cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is the metabolic pathway that converts glucose and oxygen into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water. This process occurs in specific organelles in eukaryotic cells.
3. Step 3: Identify the organelle responsible for cellular respiration. The mitochondrion is the organelle where cellular respiration takes place, specifically in its inner membrane and matrix. It contains enzymes and structures necessary for the stages of cellular respiration: glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
4. Step 4: Compare the functions of the other organelles listed. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins; the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein and lipid synthesis; and lysosomes are responsible for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris. None of these organelles are directly involved in ATP production through cellular respiration.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the mitochondrion is the correct answer, as it is the organelle primarily responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration in eukaryotic cells.