The role of mitochondria in energy production is central to cellular metabolism, often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell. Mitochondria convert energy from food into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell, through a process called cellular respiration. This process involves glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Mitochondria also play crucial roles in regulating cellular energy, maintaining metabolism, and managing the generation of reactive oxygen species, which are crucial for various cellular functions.