The primary function of the mitochondria is to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. Often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell, mitochondria convert energy stored in nutrients into ATP through a series of metabolic processes, including the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain. Mitochondria also play a role in regulating cellular metabolism, apoptosis, and thermogenesis. Their efficient energy production is essential for various cellular processes, making them integral to cellular function and survival.