The power house of the cell is known as?

Appeared in: BSF Staff Nurse - 2015

Explanation

Mitochondria are called the 'powerhouses' of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
ATP is the primary molecule used as a source of chemical energy to drive cellular processes.
This energy is produced through the process of cellular respiration, where nutrients are oxidized.
Cells with high energy requirements, such as muscle and nerve cells, have a large number of mitochondria.

Option B: Lysosomes are the cell's digestive system, not its power source. They contain hydrolytic enzymes to break down waste materials, damaged organelles, and pathogens.
Option C: Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis. They translate genetic information from messenger RNA (mRNA) into protein sequences.
Option D: The nucleus is the 'control center' of the cell. It contains the cell's genetic material (DNA) and controls gene expression, growth, and reproduction.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Functions of Cellular Organelles as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding mitochondrial function is crucial as defects can lead to mitochondrial diseases, a group of disorders affecting high-energy organs like the brain, heart, and muscles.
Nurses may care for patients with mitochondrial diseases, requiring knowledge of symptom management, energy conservation techniques, and nutritional support.
What if the patient has a condition like mitochondrial myopathy? The nurse would prioritize patient education on activity pacing, preventing infections (which increase metabolic demand), and recognizing signs of organ dysfunction.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the key phrase in the question: 'power house of the cell'.
This is a factual recall question based on fundamental biology.
Recall the common nicknames and primary functions of major cell organelles.
Evaluate each option: Mitochondria are known for energy (ATP) production, Lysosomes for digestion, Ribosomes for protein synthesis, and the Nucleus for genetic control.
Match the key phrase 'power house' with the function of energy production, which points directly to Mitochondria.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QML28191Vi9cX9K_JILOqZ

E6 Physiology Guyton 4SAE Part 1 p. 44-46

E6 Physiology Essentials Sembulingam 10e Part 1 p. 32-34

Practise the full BSF Staff Nurse - 2015

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.