What is the primary function of the nucleolus within a cell?

The primary function of the nucleolus is indeed to produce ribosomes. Within the nucleolus, ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is synthesized and combined with proteins to assemble the components needed for ribosome formation. Ribosomes are essential for translating messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins, making their production critical for cell function.

The nucleolus is not involved in controlling cell division, storing genetic material, or providing energy. Cell division is primarily regulated by other cellular mechanisms in the nucleus, genetic material is stored in the form of DNA throughout the nucleus rather than in the nucleolus, and energy production is the role of mitochondria, not the nucleolus. This highlights the specialized functions of different cell components and their importance in overall cellular activity.