What does the mitochodrian do?

Answer 1

It's main function is to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

The mitochondria take fuel (glucose) and essentially burns it. The energy given off by oxidizing the fuel is harnessed by causing ions to move across a membrane, kind of like pumping water. The ions then flow down through a protein which synthesizes ATP much like the water then flows down through a dam to generate electricity.

Answer 2

Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through a process called cellular respiration. They also play a role in regulating cellular metabolism, controlling cell growth and death, and are involved in other cellular processes such as calcium signaling and lipid metabolism.