Mitochondria play a essential role in cellular respiration, where they are known as the "powerhouses" of the cell. They convert nutrients, primarily glucose, into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the energy currency within the cell. The process involves multiple stages, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and the electron transport chain, resulting in the release of energy. Mitochondria also regulate metabolic pathways and contribute to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), highlighting their significance in both energy production and cellular health.