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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the mitochondria in eukaryotic cells?
A
Photosynthesis and glucose production
B
Production of ATP through cellular respiration
C
Synthesis of proteins from amino acids
D
Storage of genetic information
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by identifying the organelle in question, which is the mitochondria. Recall that mitochondria are often referred to as the 'powerhouses' of the cell due to their role in energy production.
Step 2: Understand the primary function of mitochondria. They are responsible for producing ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main energy currency of the cell, through the process of cellular respiration.
Step 3: Eliminate options that do not align with the known function of mitochondria. For example, photosynthesis and glucose production occur in chloroplasts, not mitochondria, and protein synthesis occurs in ribosomes.
Step 4: Consider the process of cellular respiration, which includes glycolysis, the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation. These steps occur within the mitochondria and result in ATP production.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is 'Production of ATP through cellular respiration,' as this best describes the primary function of mitochondria in eukaryotic cells.