Cellular respiration primarily occurs in the mitochondria of the cell. This process converts biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the energy currency of the cell. Mitochondria play a crucial role in harnessing energy through a series of metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, and the electron transport chain. During cellular respiration, oxygen is typically consumed, and carbon dioxide is produced as a by-product. This process is essential for cellular energy production and maintaining overall cellular function.