***Mitochondria is the one of the cell organelle present in cell ***.In mitochondria respiration process takes place which produces energy rich molecules like ATP . ***As main energy rich compounds are formed here .which provides power or energy to work cell properly. ***It is called as power house of cell.

What is mitochondria?

Mitochondria are double-membraned organelles found in eukaryotic cells, which are the cells that make up plants, animals, and fungi. They are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell due to their crucial role in producing the energy needed for cellular activities.

Why is it called the power house of the cell?

Mitochondria are called the powerhouses of the cell because they generate the majority of the cell's energy currency, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), through a process called cellular respiration. ATP is the primary energy source utilized by cells to perform various functions such as muscle contractions, metabolic reactions, and active transport across cell membranes.

Explanation in detail:

Structure of Mitochondria:
Mitochondria have a unique structure that enables them to carry out their energy-producing functions efficiently. They consist of an outer membrane, an inner membrane, and a matrix. The outer membrane acts as a protective barrier, while the inner membrane is highly folded into structures called cristae, which increase its surface area. The matrix contains enzymes, DNA, ribosomes, and other molecules necessary for mitochondrial function.

ATP production:
The process of energy production in mitochondria occurs through cellular respiration, which involves three main stages: glycolysis, the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation.

1. Glycolysis: This initial step takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell and breaks down glucose into pyruvate, generating a small amount of ATP.

2. Krebs cycle: Pyruvate is transported into the mitochondria, where it undergoes further breakdown in the Krebs cycle. This cycle generates energy-rich molecules such as NADH and FADH2, which carry electrons to the next stage.

3. Oxidative phosphorylation: The electrons carried by NADH and FADH2 are transported through the electron transport chain located on the inner mitochondrial membrane. As the electrons pass through the chain, their energy is used to pump protons (H+) across the membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient. This gradient drives the synthesis of ATP through the enzyme ATP synthase, which converts adenosine diphosphate (ADP) into ATP.

Other functions of mitochondria:
In addition to ATP production, mitochondria play essential roles in several other cellular processes:

- Calcium homeostasis: Mitochondria regulate calcium levels within the cell, which is crucial for various cellular functions such as muscle contraction and cell signaling.

- Apoptosis: Mitochondria are involved in programmed cell death, or apoptosis, by releasing specific proteins that initiate the process.

- Lipid metabolism: Mitochondria participate in the breakdown and synthesis of fatty acids, which are essential for energy storage and cellular membrane formation.

- Thermogenesis: Certain types of mitochondria, such as brown fat mitochondria, generate heat to maintain body temperature.

Overall, mitochondria are vital organelles that fulfill numerous functions within the cell, with their primary role being the production of ATP through cellular respiration. This energy is essential for the survival and functioning of all eukaryotic cells.