What is the major product produced by mitochondria?

Mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell because their primary function is to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main energy currency of cells. During cellular respiration, mitochondria break down fuel molecules such as glucose in the presence of oxygen, facilitating a series of biochemical processes that ultimately lead to the production of ATP. This process not only provides energy for various cellular activities but also generates byproducts, primarily carbon dioxide and water.

While carbon dioxide is indeed produced during cellular respiration, it is not the major product; rather, it is a waste product that is exhaled. Oxygen, on the other hand, is used in the process of aerobic respiration rather than being produced by mitochondria. Glucose serves as the substrate for ATP production but is not a product generated by mitochondria during cellular respiration. Thus, ATP stands out as the major product resulting from the metabolic activities of mitochondria, highlighting their role in energy production within the cell.