Final answer:
The power plant of the cell is the mitochondria, responsible for converting energy from nutrients into ATP, the cell's primary energy-carrying molecule, during cellular respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Often referred to as the power plant of the cell, the mitochondria are the sites where the majority of energy from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats is converted into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This critical energy-carrying molecule supports various cellular functions. The mitochondria's role is pivotal in the process of cellular respiration, utilizing oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide as a byproduct, a process that is integral to the production of ATP. Moreover, the high concentration of mitochondria in muscle cells underscores their essential function in energy-intensive tissues. The final answer to the question is Option 3: Mitochondria.