Question

Why are mitochondria called the powerhouses of cells?

Answer 1

because it takes in nutrients, breaks them down, and creates energy rich molecules for the cell. 

Answer 2

The mitochondria is called the powerhouse of the cell because it is responsible for producing most of the cell's energy, or adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP). Cells can produce two ATP by breaking down a glycogen molecule, but the mitochondria is able to produce up to 36 ATP in comparison.