What cell feature is responsible for powering the cell?A: endoplasmic reticulumB: golgi apparatusC: mitochondria

Breakdown of the Problem

1. Identify the function of each cell organelle listed in the options.
2. Determine which organelle is primarily responsible for energy production.

Relevant Concepts

• Endoplasmic Reticulum: Involved in the synthesis of proteins and lipids.
• Golgi Apparatus: Responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion.
• Mitochondria: Known as the powerhouse of the cell; responsible for producing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through cellular respiration.

Analysis and Detail

Mitochondria play a critical role in energy production. They convert nutrients into energy that the cell can utilize. This process mainly involves the Krebs cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, where glucose and oxygen are converted into ATP, carbon dioxide, and water.

Verify and Summarize

Among the options provided:

• The endoplasmic reticulum does not primarily cater to energy production but is essential for protein and lipid synthesis.
• The Golgi apparatus is more concerned with processing and packaging materials rather than generating energy.
• The mitochondria are unequivocally known for their role in energy metabolism and ATP production.

Final Answer

The correct answer is C: mitochondria. They are responsible for powering the cell by producing ATP through the process of cellular respiration.