Final answer:
Peroxisomes are organelles that detoxify harmful substances and break down fatty acids and amino acids. They contain enzymes that convert hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, protecting cells from damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Peroxisomes are small, round organelles enclosed by single membranes. They carry out oxidation reactions that break down fatty acids and amino acids. They also detoxify many poisons that may enter the body. For example, alcohol is detoxified by peroxisomes in liver cells. Peroxisomes contain enzymes that safely break down hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into water and oxygen, preventing damage to cellular components outside of the organelle.