Which organelles are known as the "powerhouses" of the animal cell?

Mitochondria are referred to as the "powerhouses" of the animal cell because they are primarily responsible for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy currency of the cell. ATP is essential for various cellular processes, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and biochemical synthesis. Mitochondria contain their own DNA and are unique in that they can replicate independently of the cell, a characteristic believed to be a vestige of their evolutionary origin as free-living bacteria.

In addition to energy production, mitochondria are also involved in other crucial cell functions, such as regulating metabolism, signaling, and programmed cell death (apoptosis). Their role in energy metabolism makes them vital for maintaining the energy balance within the cell, supporting its overall function and health.